Clearwater County announces Michael Simpson as new chief administrative officer

After a months-long recruitment process, Clearwater County has named Michael Simpson as its new chief administrative officer, effective July 13, 2026.

Simpson brings more than a decade of experience as a CAO, along with a background in media, journalism, communications and construction.

He served one term as an elected official with the town of Vegreville beginning in 2013 before moving into a full-time CAO role in 2016.

Since then, he has worked with the village of Willingdon, the village of Ryley, the county of Paintearth and, most recently, the town of Didsbury.

His education and professional development include training and certifications in local government administration, land-use planning, management, Indigenous studies, law and agronomy.

In a statement, county council said Simpson’s leadership and experience will help strengthen Clearwater County’s administrative and operations team while supporting the municipality’s continued growth and strategic direction.

Council also thanked outgoing CAO Rick Emmons for his years of service to Clearwater County and wished him well in retirement.

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Reeve Jordon Northcott says the recruitment process for a new CAO, which began in early 2026, was a robust process that included around 60 quality applicants.

Northcott adds that Simpson’s application stood out thanks in part to his experience with rural municipalities that — like Clearwater County — also include developing hamlets with similar challenges as Caroline, Alhambra, Condor, Withrow and Nordegg.

Additionally, Northcott says Simpson’s past experience as both a municipal councillor and administrator was seen as an asset.

When Simpson begins this summer, Northcott says he’ll have no shortage of issues to work through alongside council in the near term. That includes a decision on West Country development node bylaws, as well as significant recent investments and obligations relating to Caroline amalgamation and the broadband project.

Ahead of Emmons’ departure at the end of June, Northcott says he’ll be leaving with a wealth of knowledge of the local area.

Northcott adds, along with his high level of dedication to the county, Emmons’ extensive knowledge of the area and the job has been instrumental in supporting council when seeking solutions to complex problems.

“I am honoured by this opportunity to live and work in Clearwater County, and I thank council for its confidence in me,” Simpson said. “I look forward to stepping into the role and building strong relationships with council, staff and the residents who call Clearwater County home.”

County officials said they hope residents will join them in welcoming Simpson and his family as they relocate to the area.

Simpson’s appointment comes nearly two weeks after Emmons’ final day with the county. To fill the gap, council appointed senior manager Erik Hansen as interim CAO from July 1 to 12.

Hansen currently serves as the county’s director of public works infrastructure.