Durham Region looks inside to find new Corporate Services Commissioner

Durham Region didn’t have far to go to find their next Commissioner of Corporate Services.

Financial Solutions, Utility Finance & Portfolio Management Director Barb Goodwin, who helped the Region navigate its way through the transition to MyDurhamWater—a web-based portal that offers online access to water and sewer billing accounts for more than 118,000 customers – was tapped by Durham CAO Elaine Baxter-Trahair for the job.

“As a dynamic and trusted leader—with a proven passion for innovation and service excellence—Barb is a forward thinker who understands the importance of innovation and change within a progressive organization,” said Baxter-Trahair.

Known for her excellent problem-solving skills and strong leadership, Goodwin’s collaborative mindset has helped with the transformation of various projects and processes. She was responsible for corporate financial information and human capital management systems; Regional investments and debt issuance; and was accountable for the strategic direction of short- and long-term goals, budget, and multi-year projects. Prior to this role, Goodwin was responsible for finances, privacy and security, and public health communication, as Director of Administration in the Region’s Health Department.

Barb Goodwin

“I look forward to joining this senior team of professionals who are focused on our diverse and inclusive workforce,” she said. “We will continue to work towards strategic goals through innovation and dedication to service excellence.”

Before joining the Region seven years ago, Goodwin held management and executive positions with the Township of Hamilton and the County of Northumberland.

Goodwin’s experiences are enhanced by degrees from several Ontario universities, including Laurentian, Queens and Ontario Tech.