Collingwood CAO Sonya Skinner Recognized with National Public Service Leadership Award
Collingwood, ON [16 October 2026] – The Town of Collingwood is proud to congratulate Chief Administrative Officer Sonya Skinner, recipient of the 2026 Institute of Public Administration of Canada (IPAC) Established Leader Award.
The award was presented at IPAC’s National Public Service Symposium in Ottawa on October 7. IPAC’s national awards recognize excellence in public service and public administration across Canada. The Established Leader Award honours public administration leaders who have made substantive achievements over many years, had a significant impact on the public interest, and helped advance confidence and trust in their field.
Sonya has more than 20 years of executive and board experience across municipal administration, environmental regulation, transportation, information technology and analytics. She has served as Collingwood’s CAO since 2020, leading work to strengthen governance, financial sustainability and community trust. Her career has also included leadership roles with the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority and the Ontario Public Service.
“It’s a great honour to receive IPAC’s Established Leader Award. I am grateful for the recognition and proud to work alongside so many dedicated colleagues and community leaders. The progress we have made together is what makes this recognition especially meaningful,” said Sonya.
The recognition reflects the calibre of talent and leadership among staff at the Town of Collingwood, several of whom have received awards or have been recognized by industry peers this year. Through strong leadership, collaboration, and a commitment to public service, staff work hard every day to deliver the programs, services, and community-building initiatives that support residents, businesses, and visitors.
Sonya was selected from a national shortlist of seven Established Leader nominees representing public-sector organizations from across Canada.
Photo credit and pictured presenting the award to CAO Skinner: Ann Mitchell on behalf of IPAC.
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