Haiqing Xu named Vaughan’s new deputy city manager

Thestar.com
April 21, 2021
Dina Al-Shibeeb

Haiqing Xu is the new deputy city manager, planning and growth management for Vaughan effective May 10 after the city’s council ratified the decision on April 13.

The city described how Xu was chosen “following a successful public recruitment process.”

Xu has a PhD in town and regional planning from Sheffield University. According to the city, Xu’s “career spans more than 25 years of thought leadership on transportation, long-range, development and sustainability planning.”

This will relieve the city manager, Jim Harnum, from filling two posts.

Xu’s hiring comes after Harnum became the new city manager effective Aug. 17, 2020.

However, Harnum also began serving as acting deputy city manager of planning and growth management on Aug. 20, the city said, despite having this position described as vacant on its website.

“During that time, a public recruitment process was undertaken,” the city said as Harnum continues to serve as city manager.

After welcoming Xu, Harnum said in a statement, “I would like to further recognize council and members of the administration who were involved in the development and recruitment for this role.”

Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua also praised Xu’s experience.

“Working together with accomplished public servants like Mr. Xu, we will press ahead with building a world-class city that encompasses long-lasting urban design and public spaces that foster community well-being for generations to come,” Bevilacqa said in a statement.

Vaughan’s deputy city manager for community services retires

Vaughan is one of the country’s fastest-growing municipalities, and it has delivered more than $13 billion in building construction value since 2010.