City of Halifax, NS Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

City of Halifax, NS has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, technology, and administration.

Driven by a commitment to public service, City of Halifax, NS focuses on delivering essential government and private sector services to its residents and businesses, fostering a dynamic urban environment within Nova Scotia.

Leadership Roles at City of Halifax, NS

  • Chief Executive Officer - Alice Ruth
  • Chief Financial Officer - Jerry Blackwood
  • Chief of Staff - Joanne Macrae
  • Chief Information Officer - David Thorpe
  • Acting CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER - Brad Anguish
  • Alice Ruth - Chief Executive Officer

    Alice Ruth, the Chief Executive Officer at City of Halifax, NS, directs the overall strategic vision and operational execution for the municipality. Overseeing all departmental functions, Alice Ruth ensures alignment with the provincial government's objectives and the delivery of critical public services. This leadership role involves fostering intergovernmental relations and driving initiatives that enhance the quality of life for Halifax residents. By championing innovation in service delivery, Alice Ruth directly impacts the efficiency and effectiveness of municipal operations. Ultimately, Ruth secures the long-term strategic direction and sustainable growth of the Halifax region.

    Jerry Blackwood - Chief Financial Officer

    Jerry Blackwood, the Chief Financial Officer at City of Halifax, NS, directs all financial planning, budgeting, and fiscal management for the municipality. Overseeing the allocation of resources and ensuring financial compliance, Jerry Blackwood safeguards the city's economic stability and operational integrity. This critical role involves developing financial strategies that support long-term growth and service provision across Nova Scotia. By optimizing financial operations and managing investments, Jerry Blackwood directly impacts the municipality's capacity to fund essential public services. Ultimately, Blackwood ensures sound fiscal stewardship and accountability for all municipal expenditures.
    Jerry Blackwood

    Joanne Macrae - Chief of Staff

    Joanne Macrae, the Chief of Staff at City of Halifax, NS, manages the executive office and facilitates strategic communication across all municipal departments. Overseeing critical projects and ensuring seamless coordination between the CEO and other senior leaders, Joanne Macrae drives operational efficiency. This role involves advising on policy development and implementing key organizational initiatives. By streamlining internal processes and enhancing cross-departmental collaboration, Joanne Macrae directly supports the effective execution of the city's strategic priorities. Ultimately, Macrae ensures the executive team's directives are translated into actionable plans across the organization.

    David Thorpe - Chief Information Officer

    David Thorpe, the Chief Information Officer at City of Halifax, NS, architects and oversees the municipality's technology infrastructure and digital transformation strategies. Managing all IT operations, David Thorpe ensures the secure and efficient deployment of technological solutions that support government and private sector services. This leadership position involves driving innovation in data management and cybersecurity to protect municipal assets and citizen information. By implementing advanced digital platforms, David Thorpe directly enhances service delivery and operational effectiveness across Halifax. Ultimately, Thorpe positions the city at the forefront of technological advancement in public administration.

    Brad Anguish - Acting CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER

    Brad Anguish, the Acting CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER at City of Halifax, NS, oversees the day-to-day administrative operations and service delivery across municipal departments. Managing the implementation of council directives, Brad Anguish ensures efficient execution of public programs and policies. This leadership function involves coordinating departmental efforts to meet community needs and enhance operational effectiveness. By driving administrative improvements and fostering a culture of accountability, Brad Anguish directly contributes to the seamless functioning of the city's governance. Ultimately, Anguish ensures the consistent and reliable provision of municipal services to residents and businesses.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding City of Halifax, NS Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads City of Halifax, NS?
    City of Halifax, NS is led by Alice Ruth (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Jerry Blackwood (Chief Financial Officer) and Joanne Macrae (Chief of Staff).
    Who is part of City of Halifax, NS’s executive team?
    The executive team of City of Halifax, NS includes leaders such as Alice Ruth (Chief Executive Officer), Jerry Blackwood (Chief Financial Officer), Joanne Macrae (Chief of Staff) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does City of Halifax, NS have?
    City of Halifax, NS has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in City of Halifax, NS’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of City of Halifax, NS includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief of Staff, Chief Information Officer, Acting CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER.