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, 
neighboring 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 
demeanour, coupled with effective conflict management skills.
■  Political Astuteness: Prepared to guide and mentor the Council with solid and informed 
recommendations. Develop and provide appropriate policy advice to the Council, ensuring that the proposed 
policies are within the legal limitations of the Municipal Government Act (MGA) and all other 
legislation.  Ensure that the Council Is informed of their legislative responsibilities and authorities 
and all other relevant information necessary to make informed decisions on municipal matters, 
including with 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 the 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 the 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 the Council on municipal assets, debentures, and investments.
■  Strategic & Business Planning: Provides executive leadership for  initiatives, and ensures 
accountability for the 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 
a 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.