Heather Nelson-Smith has dedicated over 20 years to local government in small, remote communities, excelling as a Corporate Officer, Treasurer, and Chief Administrative Officer (CAO). Her career has taken her across Haida Gwaii, Cormorant Island, and Vancouver Island, with the past years spent on the North Island. She currently serves as CAO for Port Hardy, following her tenure as Director of Development and Corporate Services.
Heather represents Group B on the Municipal Insurance Association of BC (MIABC) board and has been involved with the Member Advisory Group Committee since 2018. She values this opportunity to amplify the voices of rural and remote communities while learning from MIABC’s history and programs. A past president and life member of the Local Government Management Association (LGMA), she remains passionate about strengthening local governance.
Heather, her husband, Pete (CAO of Zeballos), and their son Alex call Port McNeill home. Outside of work, they enjoy life on the North Island with their three energetic Australian Shepherds.