The Union of British Columbia Municipalities has appointed Kim Grout to serve as its Executive Director effective September 8, 2026. Ms. Grout served most recently as the Chief Executive Officer with the Agricultural Land Commission. Prior to that, she was the Chief Administrative Officer of the City of Pitt Meadows. Her appointment concludes a nation-wide talent search to replace outgoing Executive Director Gary MacIsaac as he retires.
“UBCM’s hiring committee left no stone unturned in its search for our next Executive Director,” said UBCM president Cori Ramsay. “Kim impressed the search committee with her knowledge of the local government sector, her proven leadership in support of board and council governance, and her strategic intelligence. Her career has placed her at the intersection of local government priorities and provincial policy, and we are excited that she will be bringing her skills and experience to UBCM.”
UBCM has seen a notable run of long-term leadership in its Executive Director appointments, with just three appointments prior to Ms. Grout since 1971.
Ms. Grout served as the CEO with the Agricultural Land Commission for over a decade. In addition to her role as the CAO of Pitt Meadows, she was also the City’s Director of Operations and Development Services. Her work experience also includes appointments with the City of Maple Ridge and the City of Abbotsford. She is a Registered Professional Planner and a Registered Professional Agrologist.
In response to her appointment, Ms. Grout said "I am thrilled to be joining UBCM. Local governments play a vital role in building strong, resilient communities across British Columbia, and I look forward to working with the Board, staff, and members to advance UBCM's important work on behalf of communities throughout the province."
UBCM was established by B.C. local governments in 1905 to represent the common interests of communities. In addition to its work of advocating for change on behalf of its membership, UBCM administers a suite of federal and provincial funding programs that support local government service delivery.