CAMBRIDGE, Ont. — October 16, 2025. The City of Cambridge has announced the appointment of Rob Axiak as its new City Manager, following a comprehensive search for a leader with proven experience in public administration and community engagement. Axiak will officially assume his new role on November 4, 2025.
The decision comes after an extensive recruitment process led by an external executive search firm, with participation from the Interim City Manager and members of Council. The appointment was made under Ontario’s Strong Mayor legislation, which grants enhanced authority to mayors in municipal staffing and leadership decisions.
Axiak joins Cambridge from his current role as Chief Administrative Officer for the City of Welland, in Niagara Region. With more than three decades of experience in municipal government, he brings a seasoned perspective on both strategic management and community development. His career includes leadership positions in Mississauga and Burlington, as well as a strong foundation in Community Services.
Born and raised in Hamilton, Axiak holds a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Western University. His professional background is rooted in building collaborative, people-focused organizations, and in leading projects that promote civic engagement and community pride.
Mayor Welcomes a Proven Leader
Mayor Jan Liggett said the City is confident Axiak’s leadership and experience will guide Cambridge into its next phase of growth and innovation.
“On behalf of Council, I am pleased to welcome Rob to the role of City Manager. He brings exceptional leadership in strategic and operational planning and has extensive experience working with communities on innovative projects that enhance engagement and build a strong sense of community pride,” said Mayor Liggett. “I am confident that Rob is the right fit for Cambridge, and I know he will work well with Council, staff and the community. We’re in good hands to ensure that Cambridge continues to thrive as a community in Waterloo Region and beyond.”
The Mayor also extended her appreciation to Interim City Manager Yogesh Shah, who stepped into the role following the retirement of former City Manager David Calder at the end of August.
“I would like to thank Mr. Shah for stepping in as Interim City Manager during this transition period and providing leadership that allowed for stability while the recruitment process for this role was underway,” said Mayor Liggett.
Bringing Decades of Experience to Cambridge
Axiak’s appointment marks a significant step in Cambridge’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its administrative leadership and community-focused governance. Over the course of his 30-year career, Axiak has developed expertise in municipal operations, financial planning, and strategic growth. His tenure in Welland has been marked by modernization efforts, economic development initiatives, and strong collaboration between city departments.
In previous roles, Axiak also helped advance municipal innovation in both Mississauga and Burlington, leading initiatives to streamline operations and improve resident engagement.
He is known for his open, team-oriented leadership style and his commitment to public service rooted in integrity, accountability, and inclusivity.
A Vision for Growth and Collaboration
As City Manager, Axiak will serve as the City’s top administrative official, responsible for overseeing municipal operations and implementing the strategic direction set by Council. His mandate will include managing the City’s corporate administration, fostering staff development, and ensuring efficient service delivery for Cambridge’s more than 140,000 residents.
“Cambridge is a city with incredible momentum and a place with endless opportunity,” said Rob Axiak. “I am honoured to accept the City Manager role and I am excited to join the talented team and work alongside Mayor Liggett, Council, and City leadership to ensure Cambridge continues to thrive as a vibrant, desirable, and forward-thinking city.”
Axiak’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for Cambridge, as the city continues to grow as part of the broader Waterloo Region innovation corridor. The municipality has been investing heavily in infrastructure, community development, and sustainability projects aimed at accommodating population growth and supporting local business investment.
With Axiak at the helm, city officials expect a continued focus on operational efficiency, staff engagement, and community collaboration. His experience working in both large and mid-sized municipalities is seen as a key asset for managing the demands of a growing city while maintaining strong local connections.
Continuity and Confidence
City officials have described the recruitment process as comprehensive and competitive, designed to identify a candidate who aligns with Cambridge’s strategic priorities and its commitment to responsive, transparent governance.
The transition from Interim City Manager Shah to Axiak is expected to be seamless, with both leaders collaborating in the weeks ahead to ensure continuity in operations and decision-making.
Axiak’s leadership appointment underscores the City’s commitment to stability and long-term planning at a time of ongoing municipal transformation across Ontario.
With the Strong Mayor framework giving municipalities greater responsibility for growth management, infrastructure, and housing initiatives, the role of City Manager has become increasingly central to effective governance.
For Axiak, the opportunity represents both a return to his roots in the Greater Golden Horseshoe region and a chance to help shape the next chapter in Cambridge’s evolution.
For more information about Mr. Axiak’s professional background, the City has provided a complete biography available at cambridge.ca/CityManager.
