City of Welland welcomes Jennifer McPetrie as Director of Community Services

The City of Welland is proud to welcome Jennifer McPetrie as its new Director of Community Services. She will begin her role with the City on January 28, further strengthening the City’s senior leadership team.

Jennifer brings more than 20 years of municipal experience in recreation and community services across Ontario, with deep expertise in parks and recreation, facilities, and cultural services. Her background in strategic planning, organizational leadership, and community engagement reflects the City of Welland’s ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality, community-focused services.

“Jennifer brings exactly the kind of leadership Welland needs as our community continues to grow,” said Jessica Ruddell, Chief Administrative Officer for the City of Welland. “Her experience, collaborative approach, and commitment to excellence will be a tremendous asset to both the organization and the residents we serve.”

Most recently, Jennifer served as Director of Community Services for the Town of Erin, providing strategic leadership for parks and recreation, facilities, and cultural services in a growing rural community.

Previously, Jennifer held senior roles with the Town of Oakville, including Senior Manager, Recreation Planning and Development, and facility manager, where she played a key role in the planning and opening of the Oakville Trafalgar Community Centre. She also spent more than 13 years with the Town of Milton in a range of recreation leadership roles, building strong experience in service delivery and community-focused programming.

Jennifer also brings a meaningful personal connection to Welland. She is a graduate of the Recreation and Leisure program at Brock University and Niagara College and lived in Welland during her studies, giving her a firsthand understanding of the community she now serves.

The City of Welland looks forward to the leadership and expertise Jennifer will bring to Community Services and to residents across the city.

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For media inquiries, please contact:
Marc MacDonald
Chief Communications & Engagement Officer
905-735-1700 x2337
marc.macdonald@welland.ca