Winnipeg mayoral hopeful Gillingham announced on September 21, 2026 a plan to add a chief growth officer to the city’s administration. The proposal calls for a new senior position tasked with leading economic development initiatives across Winnipeg and working in partnership with surrounding municipalities. Gillingham said the role would help steer city council decisions toward growth‑oriented outcomes and improve coordination of projects that span municipal boundaries.
City staff have been briefed on the concept, and discussions are now underway with Winnipeg city council to assess the feasibility of creating the post. The chief growth officer would report to council and collaborate with existing departments to align policies and programs that support business expansion, job creation, and investment attraction.
The idea arrives amid a broader conversation among mayoral candidates about how to strengthen Winnipeg’s economic strategy. Several contenders are suggesting new leadership roles to better address the city’s growth challenges. By proposing a dedicated officer, Gillingham aims to provide a clear point of contact for both municipal leaders and regional partners, ensuring that economic initiatives are consistent and mutually reinforcing.
If approved, the position would become a permanent fixture in the city’s organizational structure, tasked with long‑term planning and day‑to‑day oversight of growth projects. The proposal underscores an effort to bring more focused attention to Winnipeg’s economic future and to foster collaboration with neighboring jurisdictions on shared opportunities.
Council members have not yet voted on the recommendation, and further input from staff and regional officials is expected before any formal decision is made. The outcome will shape how Winnipeg pursues its economic objectives in the coming years.