The Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) is responsible for providing corporate leadership for the general management of the corporation as well as participating in the overall stewardship of the municipality. The CAO reports directly to Council.
The major responsibilities of the CAO are:
- Administering the business affairs of the municipality
- Providing direction to city employees
- Directing the development of corporate policies and programs
- Ensuring City Council receives the appropriate reports and information necessary for decision-making
- Helping City Council develop a corporate strategic plan
- Directing the general financial control of all departments and ensuring City Council has the annual estimates of revenue and expenditures
- Co-ordinating and directing collective bargaining with all employees, and recommending to City Council agreements concerning wage, salaries, benefits and working conditions
- Once City Council has approved the agreements, directing the administration of the agreements
- Liaising with local boards, commissions, agencies, other municipalities and the provincial and federal governments.
Chief Administrative Officer Curt Benson
Curt Benson became the City of Burlington's CAO on Aug. 2, 2025. Prior to this, he served as the City’s Commissioner of Development and Growth Management.