Just last week it was announced that the City of Moose Jaw would have a new Director, and it seems as though he's looking forward to the move. 

Derek Blais was appointed as the new leader for the Parks and Recreation Department of the City of Moose Jaw. While the spot was open City Manager Jim Pufflat stepped in until the position could be filled. 

Blais said it all happened rather quickly and came to fruition after he and his family decided to make a trip to the Friendly City. 

"I had some discussions with the HR department with the City; that lead to a visit in Moose Jaw and an interview. I visited the facilities and that kind of lead us to where we are today."

Combined with 14 years of experience in the industry, he said this will be yet another advancement in his career path.

"I think it's a few things - an opportunity for myself to advance professionally, I'm the Recreation Manager with the City of Prince Albert right now and to be able to move to a Director role I think will be a big challenge."

According to the City, Blais brings many years of experience as he was the Manager of the same department in the community of Prince Albert the last four and a half years. He graduated from Mount Royal College in Calgary, with a Bachelor of Applied Business and Entrepreneurship majoring in Sport and Recreation. He was also with Hockey Canada, where he was the Coordinator of the Men's National Teams and Manager of Hockey Operations for seven years.

"I think the whole reason you work in Parks and Recreation is to be able to give back to the community, to provide that quality of life for residents in Moose Jaw, and I'm just excited to get there."

Blais, who is just about to have three children, and his wife will be moving to Moose Jaw in the New Year. He begins his Director position at the end of January.