The City of Thompson welcomed Jessica Mills its new director of planning and community development at a March 26 council meeting.

Mills, originally from Sydney, Nova Scotia has stepped in to be Gary Ceppetelli’s successor. She has experience working as a development officer in the non-profit sector and has also spent time working in land management in the private investment sector.

She has also worked for the federal government in policy and research as an intern. Mills holds a Masters of Business Administration (MBA) with a specialization in Community Economic Development, and an undergraduate Bachelor of Arts in Community Studies from Cape Breton University.

Mills says Thompson really fit the bill for what she was looking to do while she was on her job search.

“I was looking online for development job opportunities and I was looking to go to a smaller city,” said Mills, “because what I’ve been studying really goes hand-in-hand with smaller areas, so I can take my knowledge and contribute to that specific area, whether it’s community based or economic or business.”

There is a broad range of things that Mills will be taking on, including reporting to councillors and Mayor Tim Johnston, management duties and working with the development review committee.

“I have a great mentor in Gary Ceppetelli, and working with him has been a great experience so far and I know I’m going to learn a lot more because I get to work with him,” said Mills.

She will hold her first meeting with the development review committee on April 13, and is excited about her new post.

“Everyone’s been very nice and welcoming,” said Mills, “I’m looking forward to starting a new life in Thompson and dedicating my time working for the city and contributing to its future development.”