City introduces Investment & Growth Officer, Bridget Mearns

Business knowledge, community leadership and a strong municipal government background have successfully positioned Bridget Mearns as the City of Lethbridge’s first Investment & Growth Officer.

Mearns officially starts her position June 1. This senior leadership role will be responsible for advancing City Council’s economic vision and will play a pivotal role in shaping the future economic landscape of Lethbridge over the next 5–10 years.

“We are so excited to be bringing this new role to our team,” says Nicole Mitton, Director of People and Partner Services. “I’m even more excited to have someone with Bridget’s expertise building and growing this portfolio.”

City Council has prioritized an economically prosperous city as a pillar in their newly approved 2026-2029 Strategic Plan. Council aims to achieve this by:

• Supporting, celebrating and advocating for the growth and resilience of existing businesses
• Using municipal systems, processes and infrastructure (physical and social) to support the attraction and retention of investment and a strong workforce 
• Strengthening Lethbridge and region as a premier destination for agriculture, agrifood, advanced manufacturing, trade and logistics and other emerging sectors. 

The new Investment & Growth Officer has been established to help achieve these goals and aligns with the skills Ms. Mearns brings to the position.

“I’m really looking forward to using my experience to further strengthen our community,” says Mearns. “Council has signaled that an economically prosperous city is important to them and the organization is taking the steps needed to make that happen. I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to lead and elevate this work.”

A dedicated champion of Lethbridge and seasoned leader, Ms. Mearns brings extensive experience in economic development, community building, and public service. She holds an MBA in Executive Management from Royal Roads University and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Lethbridge. In 2023, she was recognized with a YWCA Woman of Distinction Award for Leadership and Management.

Ms. Mearns has spent her career advancing Lethbridge’s growth and prosperity. She served as Executive Officer of the Building Industry & Land Development Association (BILD) – Lethbridge Region, where she led strategic initiatives, fostered industry collaboration, and advocated for policies supporting responsible development. Her leadership has extended to roles on the Canadian Home Builders’ Association Executive Officers Council, BILD Alberta Board, Team Lethbridge, and the Board of Directors for Tourism Lethbridge.

A dedicated public servant, Ms. Mearns served two terms on Lethbridge City Council (2010–2017), participating in numerous committees and boards. She brings a collaborative and strategic approach to her work, with a focus on supporting a strong, resilient and investment-ready community.

“I understand the challenges on both the government and business side and I’m ready to dig in to find solutions that help both succeed,” says Mearns.

As a key connector and influencer across the organization, the Investment & Growth Officer will ensure municipal services align seamlessly to support new investment, development and innovation.

By aligning with Council priorities and nurturing strong partnerships, this role enables sustainable growth and positions Lethbridge as a competitive and welcoming place to do business.

For Public Inquiries:    

Call or chat 311 | Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.