Source URL: rmalberta.com/news/rma-announces-r-w-hay-award-recipient/

RMA Announces R.W. Hay Award Recipient

In 1997, the RMA established the R.W. Hay Award for Excellence in Rural Municipal Administration to recognize the superior service provided by rural administrators. RMA works in collaboration with the Society of Local Government Managers (SLGM) to offer this award annually.

The RMA and SLGM are pleased to announce the 2020 recipient of the R.W. Hay Award for Excellence in Rural Administration is Kevin Stephenson from the County of Newell.

Kevin Stephenson was nominated by the County of Newell council because of his innovative leadership and focus on the big picture. In his role as Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), he is committed to productive relationships, employee retention, preserving corporate knowledge, and supporting succession planning that positions the county well for long-term success.

Recognizing the importance of a healthy region, Kevin also steps up when other service delivery groups or municipalities need assistance, even covering the administrative duties of a small urban municipality within the boundary until a CAO could be hired. Partnership is key and Kevin values the opportunity to contribute to the success of the region by working collaboratively with the provincial government, service groups, and other municipalities where possible.

His open and straight-forward approach has resulted in a positive CAO, council, and staff relationship. The County of Newell staff identified that by providing challenging, yet rewarding work, opportunities to grow and learn, and a positive team-oriented culture, Kevin has provided them with a strong sense of job satisfaction.

A wide range of expertise, good judgement, and creative thinking skills, along with the belief in doing what is right and fair for ratepayers, makes this year’s recipient an outstanding administrator and mentor.

Congratulations, Kevin Stephenson – job well done!

Learn more about the R.W. Hay Award.

Cindy Carstairs
Administrative & Convention Coordinator
780.955.4095
cindy@RMAlberta.com