Chris Frotten new chief administrative officer for Town of Yarmouth

The Town of Yarmouth has announced the appointment of Chris Frotten as its new chief administrative officer (CAO), effective December 2026.

“Frotten brings extensive municipal leadership experience and a strong understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing communities in southwestern Nova Scotia,” reads a town media release.

Frotten’s appointment will follow the retirement of long-time CAO Jeff Gushue, who has been the town’s CAO for 22 years.

Since 2018, Frotten has served as CAO of the Municipality of Barrington, overseeing municipal operations, working closely with elected officials, and supporting the implementation of council’s strategic priorities. Prior to this, he held the positions of Deputy Clerk and Clerk with the Municipality of Argyle.

“His knowledge of local government and the region will serve him well as he takes on the responsibility of leading the town’s administration, supporting council’s direction, and working alongside staff to deliver the services residents and businesses depend upon,” the town’s media release said.

Frotten said he’s honoured to be joining the town as it’s CAO and appreciates the confidence that council has placed in him.

“I look forward to getting to know the team, listening to residents and businesses, and working with council and staff to turn the town’s priorities into meaningful results,” said Frotten. “I’m excited to contribute to Yarmouth’s future and to the services that make a difference in its residents’ everyday lives.”

Mayor Pam Mood welcomed Frotten’s appointment, while also reflecting on Gushue’s contributions.

“We are delighted to welcome Chris to the Town of Yarmouth. He brings valuable experience, a strong understanding of municipal government, and a genuine appreciation for the importance of community,” she said.

“At the same time, this is a significant moment for our town as we prepare to say goodbye to someone who has been such an important part of our municipal leadership for over two decades,” Mood added. “The role of chief administrative officer is enormous, carrying responsibilities and challenges that most people will never see. Throughout his years of service, Jeff has met those challenges with integrity, wisdom, and a genuine love for Yarmouth.”

The Municipality of the District of Barrington said that Frotten will be leaving his CAO position with the municipality effective Nov. 27.

“On behalf of council, the municipality extends its sincere gratitude to Chris for his service and for the meaningful contribution he has made to local government and to the community of Barrington,” Warden Shaun Hatfield said.

“Chris has been a highly respected and deeply valued member of our municipal leadership team. His professional integrity, sound advice, consistent availability, and responsiveness to the needs of council and staff have helped foster a workplace built on mutual respect, collaboration, and a shared commitment to serving our residents,” Hatfield added.

The municipality said it will work to ensure continuity in its administration and municipal operations during this transition.

Further information regarding interim administrative arrangements and the process for appointing a successor will be communicated as appropriate, the municipality said.