The Municipality of Port Hope is pleased to announce the appointment of Mike Melinyshyn as its new Chief Administrative Officer (CAO). Mr. Melinyshyn is an accomplished Chartered Professional Accountant who most recently served as the Chief Financial Officer and Director of Corporate Services and Innovation for the Town of Innisfil, where he also held the role of Interim CAO for a period.
“We are very excited to welcome Mike to the Port Hope family,” said Mayor Olena Hankivsky. “The breadth and depth of his experience in both the public and private sectors, commitment to innovation and learning, and unique mix of professional designations, demonstrated skills and qualities ideally position him to lead the Municipality of Port Hope into an exciting new chapter.”
With two decades of leadership as a Chief Financial Officer, Mr. Melinyshyn has played a key role in optimizing operations, applying lean methodologies to enhance processes, and developing strategic plans to drive organizational success.
A committed community partner, he has chaired multiple economic development and industry boards, working alongside municipal councils to support business growth and relocation. He has also partnered with colleges and universities to help businesses adopt advanced technologies, enhancing their competitiveness in a dynamic marketplace.
Mr. Melinyshyn holds a Master of Management in Artificial Intelligence from Queen’s University, along with an MBA minoring in Management and Human Resource Development from McMaster University. Recognized for his adaptability and transformational leadership, he embraces continuous learning and innovation. He challenges conventional approaches by leveraging emerging technologies—including Artificial Intelligence—to improve service delivery, increase operational efficiency, and support environmental sustainability. His passion for AI also extends into community initiatives that apply technological solutions to achieve meaningful progress.
"I am truly grateful and excited to work with Port Hope’s progressive Council, committed staff and vibrant community,” said Mr. Melinyshyn. “Opportunity abounds in Port Hope and I look forward to helping navigate the Municipality’s future growth, and prosperity, through collaboration and innovative solutions. It is an honour to be part of this dynamic leadership team.
Mr. Melinyshyn will officially assume his new role on June 2, 2025, pending his appointment by By-law at an upcoming Council meeting. Interim CAO Tonia Bennett will conclude her tenure at the end of May.
“I would also like to extend a heartfelt thanks and gratitude to Tonia Bennett for her steadfast leadership and hard work as Interim CAO,” added Mayor Hankivsky. “She has provided much-needed stability, guidance, and a human touch approach over the last several months. We wish her all the best in her future professional endeavors.”
Background
The CAO selection process was facilitated by Feldman Daxon Partners Inc., in collaboration with Council, to ensure a comprehensive and strategic approach to recruitment.
The CAO serves as the senior administrative leader of the Municipality, reporting directly to Council. This role oversees all municipal operations, ensures the effective delivery of services, and guides the organization in accordance with legislation, corporate policies, and the Strategic Plan. The CAO is also responsible for driving continuous improvement to enhance service and operational performance.
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