Whistler’s new Chief Administrative Officer to be sworn in at September 1 Council meeting
Chris Vick, Whistler’s seventh CAO, started in the role on August 10
Thursday, August 27, 2026 — Chris Vick will be sworn in as the Resort Municipality of Whistler’s (RMOW) newest Chief Administrative Officer in a ceremony at the September 1 Regular Council meeting, held at the Maury Young Arts Centre.
“One of the greatest things about Whistler is the deep sense of pride people have in this community. My kids were born here and I love that they are growing up in a community where people have that strong sense of their community,” said Vick. “I want Whistler to continue being one of the greatest places to live, visit, retire, and raise a family, as I have for the past 16 years.”
“The responsibility that the RMOW holds in making sure that Whistler continues to be one of the greatest places to live, to visit, to raise a family, and to retire is something I hold close. There is probably no better organization to help foster this community spirit and optimism than the RMOW, and I’m excited to be a part of the team and to help continue delivering what our community, and the world, expects of the resort.”
The seventh Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) in the RMOW’s history, Vick began in his new role on August 10. Under the Community Charter, the CAO, a municipality’s staff leader, is hired and managed by Council. Whistler Council spent nearly five months vetting and selecting its preferred candidate through a rigorous interview process.
“I can’t think of a better person to steer this ship than Chris,” said Mayor Jack Crompton. “His experience and leadership across the tourism, hospitality and business landscapes have positioned him to hit the ground running in his new role. More importantly, Chris is a skilled leader and people person who isn’t afraid to ask tough questions and put forward big ideas. I’m looking forward to seeing him grow and excel in the CAO’s office.”
The former General Manager of Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa, Vick brings a diverse array of tourism, business and leadership experience to the role. He has served as board chairperson for the Whistler Chamber of Commerce, helping lead the resort’s largest business network and advocacy group through COVID-19. A former vice chairperson for Tourism Whistler, he is also an active member of the Hotel Association of Whistler. Outside of his professional life, Vick is a loving husband and father of two, and an avid mountain enthusiast.
Ted Battiston, who served as Chief Administrative Officer after former CAO Virginia Cullen departed in January, will remain on until the end of summer to assist in Vick’s transition. Battiston served previously as the RMOW’s General Manager of Corporate Services and Public Safety and was instrumental in leading the organization through a transitional period that saw several new leaders join the municipality.
Cullen’s tenure as CAO, which began in 2020, focused on Council’s four strategic priorities —Housing, Community Engagement, Climate Action and Smart Tourism. She was also responsible for developing and implementing the RMOW’s Change Charter, an organization-wide commitment to four key principles: Shared Purpose, Open Hearts and Minds, Courageous Learning and Collaborative Solutions.
The diligent work and steady leadership of both Cullen and Battiston have paved the way for this transitional period before Whistlerites head to the polls for the next municipal election on October 17. On that day, Whistler will elect a Mayor, six Councillors, and two School Board Trustees.
Vick will be available for questions from the media following the Council meeting on September 1.