South Frontenac announces new Director of Public Services

After a lengthy recruitment process, the Township of South Frontenac has announced the hiring of Charles Croll as its new Director of Public Services. Croll will step into this important role on Wednesday, Nov. 17, 2021.

According to a release from the Township of South Frontenac, Croll brings a variety of relevant skills and experience to his new role, including an extensive background in asset management, rural sustainability and capital project management, and direct experience overseeing public works operations in several municipalities. He has held key leadership positions in the private sector in the civil engineering field and as an asset management consultant, and has served as the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) & Public Works Manager for the Township of Stirling-Rawdon, and most recently, as the CAO/Public Works Manager for the Township of Swan River and the Municipality of Grandview in Manitoba.

“While our Public Services team has done a phenomenal job this past season keeping everything on track, Council is excited to have Charles join South Frontenac’s senior leadership group, and looks forward to the experience and coordination he will bring to our largest Department,” explained Mayor Ron Vandewal. “I have no doubt that Mr. Croll will help further South Frontenac’s strategic objectives and assist in setting exemplary service and infrastructure standards this community can be proud of.”

Croll holds a Masters Degree from the University of Salford, an Executive Diploma in Municipal Management, and a Diploma in Civil Engineering Technology from Loyalist College. He is also a Certified Engineering Technologist (CET) and has certifications in Asset Management and Project Management.

With a passion for innovation, problem-solving and finding efficiencies, Charles describes himself as someone with a servant philosophy and leadership style that focuses on team building and engaging with staff, council and the public. “I’m excited to have the opportunity to lead the South Frontenac Public Services team and contribute to this beautiful community in eastern Ontario,” Croll said. “I love working in the municipal sector because you’re able to make a real difference in people’s lives and you get to see the effects of your hard work and leadership first hand.”

According to the release, Croll will be responsible for the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the financial, technical, and operational elements of the Public Services department which encompasses, roads, engineering, solid waste, recreation and facilities portfolios. As a member of the senior leadership team, Croll will also play a pivotal role in implementing the Township’s strategic plan which places a focus on regional leadership, growth, environmental sustainability, organizational capacity-building and community vibrancy, the Township said.

“Charles is joining us at an exciting time for South Frontenac,” said Neil Carbone, Chief Administrative Officer for the Township. “This community is growing and experiencing increasing demands for services – bringing an experienced professional like Charles on board really adds to our collective strength and our ability to manage and adapt to those pressures. We are pleased to have him as part of our team.”

The Director of Public Services role is the last vacant position to be filled within the Public Services Department following a year of change, according to the release. Earlier this year, Troy Dunlop was recruited for the new role of Manager of Technical Services and Infrastructure, and Ronnie Joslin was recently hired into the new position of Construction and Technical Services Technologist, rounding out the Public Services team.