Ray Orb steps down after 20 years of service at SARM
The Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities (SARM) has announced a leadership change, confirming that Ray Orb will step down as President at the end of August 2024.
After serving on the SARM board since 2004, Orb’s decision to step down early comes from a desire to experience life differently after two decades of dedicated service. Bill Huber, the current Vice President, will take over as Acting President.
Orb expressed that the timing of his departure feels right and that the transition has gone smoothly since he announced in March that he wouldn’t be seeking re-election.
He emphasized that SARM is in capable hands with Huber as Acting President and looks forward to spending more time with his family.
“After 20 years of proudly serving SARM, the timing just feels right,” says Orb. “Since announcing back in March that I wouldn’t be seeking re-election, the transition has gone so smoothly that there wasn’t any real reason to delay stepping down. SARM is in incredibly capable hands with Bill Huber as Acting President, and I’m looking forward to more family time, so it just makes sense.”
The official search for a new elected President will begin in January 2025, culminating in an election during the SARM Annual Convention in March 2025.
All nominees for President must be elected officials in a rural municipality. Until then, Bill Huber will serve as Acting President and is eager to take on the responsibilities.
Bill Huber expressed his deep commitment to the people of rural Saskatchewan and his passion for farming. He feels honoured to take on the role of Acting President, especially after serving as Vice President for the past four years.
Huber recognizes the exceptional leadership of Ray Orb and acknowledges the significant impact Orb has had on the organization.
He considers it a privilege to continue the important work that Orb has started and looks forward to contributing to the ongoing success of SARM.
As Orb reflects on his time with SARM, he expresses deep gratitude for the experience. He feels privileged to have listened to and learned from the many people he has worked with and represented over the years.
The strong sense of community and pride in rural Saskatchewan has been a significant part of his journey, something that has influenced him greatly and will continue to be a lasting part of his life.
As SARM prepares for its upcoming leadership election, the organization remains committed to serving the rural communities of Saskatchewan with the same dedication and passion that has been its hallmark under Orb’s leadership.