Niagara-on-the-Lake Town Council is pleased to announce the appointment of Nick Ruller as the Town's new Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), effective July 7, 2025.
With over 25 years of experience in municipal government, Nick brings a wealth of expertise, strategic vision, and a collaborative approach to the role.
Nick most recently served as the Fire Chief for the City of Brampton, where he provided executive oversight to nearly 600 staff and managed multi-million-dollar budgets. Previously, Nick worked for the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake as the Fire Chief and Community Emergency Management Coordinator from 2019-2022, following his time as Deputy Chief and Interim Chief from 2017-2019.
In addition to his years of service with the municipality, Nick is a well-respected leader and a dedicated member of the Niagara-on-the-Lake community. Having grown up in Niagara-on-the-Lake and now raising his family here, Nick's roots in the community run deep. He has volunteered in various capacities over the years, including as a Volunteer Firefighter and, most recently, was elected to Municipal Council from 2022 to 2024.
Throughout his career, Nick has earned a reputation for his principled leadership, innovative thinking, and dedication to organizational transformation. A strong commitment to lifelong learning complements his professional and lived experience. Nick holds a Master of Arts in Leadership from the University of Guelph and a Graduate Certificate in Diversity and Inclusion from Cornell University, among other academic credentials in public administration and emergency management.
Please join us in welcoming Nick Ruller back to Niagara-on-the-Lake in this new leadership capacity.
Quotes:
"On behalf of Council, I am pleased to welcome Nick Ruller as the Town's new Chief Administrative Officer. Nick brings a unique and valuable perspective to the role, having previously participated on the Town's Senior Leadership Team and served as a member of Council. His understanding of municipal operations, governance, and community needs will serve the Town well as we continue to move forward. I would also like to sincerely thank Bruce Zvaniga for his leadership, professionalism, and dedication as Interim CAO. His steady guidance not only ensured continuity but also allowed us to continue advancing important Town business." – Lord Mayor Gary Zalepa
"I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as Interim CAO for the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, having the privilege of working alongside hardworking Council members and staff and moving forward many significant projects and initiatives in the Town that is my home. The recruitment process for a new CAO has been rigorous, and I am confident that Nick will excel in this role. I wish Nick a warm welcome back to the municipality and great success in overseeing the Town's administration." – Interim CAO Bruce Zvaniga
"It is a tremendous honour to have been selected as Chief Administrative Officer for the community in which I was raised and where I am proud to be raising my family today. I look forward to working closely with the Lord Mayor, Council, members of staff, and the community at large collaboratively and purposefully, ensuring that Niagara-on-the-Lake continues to be a place where its rich heritage is preserved while embracing opportunity, innovation, and high quality of life for all its residents." – Incoming CAO, Nick Ruller
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