NVCA Appoints Jennifer Vincent as New Chief Administrative Officer

UTOPIA, Ontario (April 4, 2025) – The Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority (NVCA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Jennifer Vincent as its new Chief Administrative Officer (CAO). With nearly twenty-five years of experience in senior roles with the federal public service, Ms. Vincent brings a wealth of expertise in environmental science, policy and management. 

Ms. Vincent joins NVCA from her current role as Executive Director of Ontario Freshwater Management at the Canada Water Agency, where she was instrumental in shaping national and binational water-protection strategies. Previously, she held senior leadership positions with Environment and Climate Change Canada, including serving as Associate Regional Director General of Ontario and as Director of the Science Policy Division. Her well-regarded career has focused on protecting the Great Lakes, building consensus on environmental issues with governments and Indigenous communities, and managing remediation of contaminated sites.  

She recently moved to the Georgian Bay area and holds a Master’s degree in environmental sciences from the University of Guelph and a Bachelor of Science in biology from Wilfrid Laurier University. Her career began at the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority as a waterfront biologist, bringing her full circle to conservation authority leadership. 

“We are thrilled to welcome Jennifer Vincent as our new CAO,” said Jonathan Scott, Chair of NVCA. “Her deep expertise in environmental stewardship, science-based policy and government service will be a tremendous asset as we work to strengthen NVCA’s role as a trusted, reliable partner in conservation and sustainable development. Under her leadership, our goal is to be recognized for our expertise, environmental protection and high-quality, efficient customer service. Jennifer knows how to bring people together to find common ground and to get things done while protecting the environment.”

“I am honoured to take on this role and to contribute to the vital work of protecting and enhancing the Nottawasaga Watershed,” said Jennifer Vincent, incoming CAO of NVCA. “I look forward to working with the board, municipalities, stakeholders, businesses and community members to build on NVCA’s strong foundation, ensuring that we continue to deliver trusted expertise, environmental stewardship and reliable, responsive service for the communities we serve.” 

Vice-Chair Gail Little, who led the recruitment process, added, “ NVCA was fortunate to have received strong interest in the position of CAO from many qualified applicants. After the Board reached a unanimous decision, we are incredibly pleased to have Jennifer Vincent accept our offer. With her experience in building positive working relationships between all levels of government, community and businesses while maintaining consideration for environmental issues and water quality, we are confident in her ability to create a sustainable conservation authority for our eighteen member municipalities.” 

Ms. Vincent will officially assume her role as CAO of NVCA on May 5th. 

Chair Scott concluded by thanking Director of Corporate Services Sheryl Flannagan for her service as Interim CAO, saying, “Our board is incredibly grateful to Sheryl for her effective tenure as Interim CAO. In just a few months, Sheryl worked diligently to improve relationships with municipalities, enhance customer service, and create greater efficiencies in our planning and permitting department. We are very thankful for her leadership and dedication to our organization.”