Hamilton’s loss is Lincoln’s gain

Town of Lincoln hires new CAO, Mike Kirkopoulos took his new post Monday

By Mike Williscraft
NewsNow

For nearly two decades Mike Kirkopoulos served the City of Hamilton, most recently as director of communications and inter-governmental affairs.

He has developed a track record as a team builder with an acumen for developing a positive culture.

He has also gained invaluable experience in dealing with Queen’s Park and key files such as GO Transit and LRT (light rail transit).

As of Monday, Dec. 10, Kirkopoulos brings his skills to the Town of Lincoln as the municipality’s new chief administrative officer.

“I’m the kind of guy who looks for solutions. When people deal with government they get used to getting a ‘no’ right away,” said Kirkopoulos.

“The answer may still be no, but I will review and assess possible solutions first.”

Lincoln Mayor Sandra Easton says Kirkopoulos’s varied background and strength in communications make him an excellent fit for the municipality as it pushes ahead with its key priorities.

“Lincoln Council welcomes him and is confident with its selection which zeroed in on his broad general competencies across the municipal spectrum and, specifically, his abilities in community communication, media work, intergovernmental connections, ability to build a culture amongst staff that acknowledges the important community agenda that is clearly defined in our Corporate Priorities and was generated through face to face public consultation,” said Easton.

Kirkopoulos, who grew up in Hamilton and graduated from Brock University, said a top priority will allowing Lincoln to capitalize on the strengths it has.

“The community is changing. We need to harness that. The QEW and GO (Transit) afford us great opportunity. We’re caught in the jet stream of Toronto and Niagara. The Town’s five priorities set by council are a great base,” said Kirkopoulos.