National transit expert returns to Region of Waterloo as Chief Administrative Officer

Waterloo Region – The Region of Waterloo has announced that Darshpreet Bhatti, P.Eng. will join the organization as Chief Administrative Officer on March 9, 2026.

Bhatti recently served as the Chief Executive Officer of the Green Line LRT in Calgary, following four years as Vice President of the Hazel McCallion Line for Metrolinx. A familiar face to Waterloo Region, from 2008 to 2017 he led the highly successful planning and implementation of the ION LRT as Director of Rapid Transit for the Region of Waterloo.

“On behalf of Regional Council, I am excited to welcome Darshpreet back to the Region. He brings an innovative and forward-thinking approach, a deep knowledge of our community, and a demonstrated track record of leading organizations through periods of growth and change,” said Regional Chair Karen Redman. “I also want to thank Acting CAO, Mathieu Goetzke, for his steadfast leadership in helping us navigate through a period of global and national uncertainty.”

Darshpreet S. Bhatti is a senior public-sector executive with over two decades of experience leading complex municipal and regional organizations. His experience includes organizational leadership, governance, financial stewardship, and delivery of complex capital and operational portfolios. He has worked closely with elected officials, boards, senior governments, and community partners and has a demonstrated track record of leading large organizations through periods of growth and change.

“I am honoured to be joining the Region at such an important time. I look forward to working with Council, staff, and community partners to support strong governance, deliver results for residents, and ensure the organization is well positioned for the future,” said Darshpreet Bhatti. “Drawing on my experience leading complex organizations, I hope to contribute to enhancing operational excellence and public trust across all areas of the Region’s services.”

Darshpreet is a Professional Civil Engineer, educated at the University of Toronto, and is committed to working constructively with Council, staff, and the community in support of the Region’s strategic priorities and long-term sustainability.

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