Markham appoints Brenda Librecz Commissioner of Community and Fire Services

MARKHAM, ON - June 25, 2008 — Brenda Librecz was appointed Commissioner of Community and Fire Services at Markham Council meeting last evening. In this critical senior leadership role Ms. Librecz will be responsible for a broad, diverse portfolio that includes Markham Fire and Emergency Services; Markham Public Libraries; Markham’s cultural attractions; Operations such as Waste Management, Waterworks, Forestry & Horticulture and; Recreation Services. She will provide leadership and direction to the Commission’s approximately 1300 full and part-time staff to advance Markham Council’s strategic priorities, particularly as they relate to the provision of excellent municipal services.
Ms. Librecz has more than twenty years experience in the public sector with the former City of Scarborough and at the City of Toronto where she was most recently General Manager, Parks, Forestry & Recreation Division. Other senior positions were Director of Business Development in Toronto and Director/Commissioner Economic Development in Scarborough. 

Ms. Librecz’ appointment follows a national search including more than 330 potential prospects. The selection committee, Mayor Frank Scarpitti, Regional Councillor Gord Landon, Councillor Alex Chiu, Councillor Carolina Moretti, Councillor Erin Shapero, Chief Administrative Officer John Livey and Director of Human Resources Sharon Laing, held several rounds of interviews with a short list of candidates. 
“I’m delighted Brenda has agreed to come to Markham,” said Mayor Frank Scarpitti. “She has an outstanding record of achievement and innovation that makes her an ideal fit for this essential position.”

Chief Administrative Officer John Livey said, “Brenda will be a valuable addition to our senior management team. She has led large numbers of staff at some 300 locations and brings proven leadership, management and strategic skills that will ultimately benefit all Markham residents.“

Ms. Librecz holds a Bachelor of Arts, specializing in Economics from the University of Toronto and, in 2003, was recognized by U of T as one of its “175 Great Minds”.  Ms. Librecz will assume her new role on August 5.