Calgary Housing has parted ways with long-time president and CEO Sarah Woodgate in what they termed a senior leadership transition.
In a release posted to the Calgary Housing website, the Calgary Housing Board of Directors thanked Woodgate for her 11 years at the helm.
Calgary Housing was under some scrutiny in November after newly elected Coun. Landon Johnston had a dust up around his desire to be appointed to the City of Calgary wholly-owned-subsidiary’s board.
Coun. Johnson was unsuccessful in getting a Notice of Motion on the floor of council back in November, centred around an alleged conflict of interest with his appointment.
He said that a letter was circulated from one of the subsidiaries, later revealed as Calgary Housing, that alleged a conflict of interest.
“I’ve seen what works and doesn’t work with Calgary Housing, and I think I would be best suited for that position on the committee, knowing firsthand the struggles and what they do well,” Johnston said at the time.
Board chair Anna Nelson wasn’t made available for an interview on Woodgate’s departure, though a statement responding to questions was provided. LWC asked if Woodgate’s leave was due to a potential conflict with city councillors.
“The Board’s decision was made independently and in accordance with our governance responsibilities. We respect employee confidentiality and are unable to share further details,” read a statement from Anna Nelson, Chair, Calgary Housing.
“We will launch a recruitment process and will share more details about the anticipated timeline once an executive search partner is selected.”
Woodgate’s dismissal is not believed to be connected to Johnston’s issue with the board appointment.
In the interim, Bo Jiang will take over as CEO. Jiang currently serves as the vice president of asset management and development with Calgary Housing.
“Calgary Housing’s mission, strategic direction, and day-to-day operations remain unchanged,” read Nelson’s statement.
“Calgary Housing has a strong team, now led by interim CEO Bo Jiang, who will keep our work on track, aligned with our strategy, and building on the momentum already underway.”
Calgary Housing provides affordable homes to more than 25,000 Calgarians. It’s a wholly-owned subsidiary of the City of Calgary and operates more than 6,700 homes on behalf of the City, and the Government of Alberta, along with providing nearly 3,000 private rent supplements.
