Chief Administrative Officer (Cao)

RESPONSIBILITIES & FUNCTIONS OVERVIEW

The Town of High Level is seeking a Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) who will embrace and lead the Town’s dedicated and talented team. This role will appeal to individuals with a proven track record of leadership, financial acumen, political savvy, and the ability to work collaboratively with Council, staff, citizens, government, and other community partners. In addition to the responsibilities as laid out in the CAO Bylaw No. 841-06, the Municipal Government Act (MGA), and other relevant bylaws and statutes the successful applicant will provide strategic direction and leadership, and will be instrumental in developing, implementing, and executing policies, strategies, and objectives (as approved by the Council) to address the immediate and long-term needs of the Municipality. The CAO serves as the “Director of Emergency Management”. Vital to this role, is open communication and effective relationships between the TOHL and the First Nations, neighbouring municipalities, levels of Government, local businesses and industry, potential investors, ratepayers, and the general public.

SKILLS & ATTRIBUTES

The CAO will possess a progressive leadership record demonstrating positive relationships with key stakeholders, elected officials, staff, and the general public. The successful candidate will feel equally comfortable as a senior leader, as well as a “hands-on” team participant. Among other attributes, the following competencies and behaviours are vital.

¦ Leadership: Serve as a mentor and positive role model. Possess an understanding of and is knowledgeable in both rural and urban issues. Committed to personal growth and development, and promotes the same amongst team members. Ability to prioritize tasks, while working in high pressure situations, and meeting tight deadlines. Possess a keen sense for accuracy and attention to detail and work both as part of a team and independently.

¦ Management: Invested in promoting professional development opportunities, and mentoring staff, with the goal of succession planning. Ensure the appropriate organizational design and staffing are in place for the effective and efficient operation of the Municipality. A welcoming and calming demeanor, coupled with effective conflict management skills.

¦ Political Astuteness: Prepared to guide and mentor Council with solid and informed recommendations. Develop and provide appropriate policy advice to Council, ensuring that proposed policies are within the legal limitations of the Municipal Government Act (MGA) and all other legislation. Ensure that Council Is informed of their legislative responsibilities and authorities and all other relevant information necessary to make informed decisions on municipal matters, including in respect to Operating and Capital budgets. Politically savvy with the ability to know and understand legislative and regulatory processes and understands the political implications of such recommendations and actions to council.

¦ Communication: Excellent clear and concise communication (both written and verbal) and public relations skills. Liaison between: First Nations, regional municipalities, industry, developers, committees,and Council. An open and honest style with all audiences, while demonstrating candor and respect. Keeps Council fully informed at all times.

¦ Interpersonal Skills: Able to effectively build relationships with a wide range of stakeholders. Flexible and adaptable, able to work comfortably with individuals and committees of varying backgrounds. Possesses well-developed negotiating skills and the ability to facilitate productive negotiations with tact and diplomacy.

¦ Customer Service: Ensures that customer needs are identified and addressed in a professional and timely manner.

¦ Financial Management: Oversee the preparation of the annual budget and provide

Council with recommendations on priorities. In concert with the Director of Finance, ensure timely and efficient budgeting practices, as well as accurate financial reporting.

Monitor and manage the fiscal activities of the organization, ensuring effective controls and sound fiscal management. Oversee, review, advise, and update Council on municipal assets, debentures, and investments.

¦ Strategic & Business Planning: Provides executive leadership for initiatives, and ensures accountability for achievement of results throughout the Municipality. A commitment to ongoing regional working relationships, and the willingness to positively promote and support the Town, as-well-as the region. .

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

¦ The ideal candidate is a proven leader, with relevant post-secondary education and senior management experience in the public sector. Minimum of five (5) years in a senior municipal government position or equivalent experience is preferred.

¦ Candidates who bring strong leadership together with demonstrated business and financial acumen from working with other complex organizations will also be considered.

¦ A Certified Local Government Manager (CLGM) designation is likewise desirable; however, other combinations of experience and credentials will also be considered.

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

¦ Post secondary degree in Public or Business Administration, Engineering, Accounting or other related discipline is required.

¦ A National Advanced Certificate in Local Authority Administration, Certified Local Government Manager Designation would be considered an asset.

¦ An equivalent combination of education and work experience may be considered.

COMPENSATION:

A competitive compensation package will be provided including an attractive salary and

excellent benefits. Further details will be discussed in a personal interview.

Please submit resume to: cmcateer@highlevel.ca