Chief Administrative Officer (CAO)

Lac Ste. Anne County is seeking a community-focused leader to serve as Chief Administrative Officer (CAO). This is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact in a rural municipality with deep agricultural ties and growth aspirations.

Located an hour Northwest of Edmonton, Lac Ste. Anne is a vibrant hub of rural communities in Alberta’s Heartland. Home of more than 12,000 residents Lac Ste. Anne is a significant contributor to Alberta’s agricultural diversity and a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. The County of Lac Ste. Anne (the "County") embodies the Alberta spirit for families, businesses, and opportunities alike.

Reporting to the Reeve and six Councillors, the Chief Administrative Officer (the "CAO") is responsible for guiding the day-to-day affairs of the County as outlined in the Municipal Government Act (Alberta) and the regulations thereunder (the "MGA"), the County by-laws and policies as set by Council.

The CAO will:

• Provide effective advice and support to the Reeve and Council in developing, implementing, and executing policies, programs, and strategies, as well as the operation and affairs of the County.

• Deliver solid leadership to the staff of the County in supporting and engaging employees at all levels.

• Ensure that County staff are committed to providing the highest level of service to the public and the business community through clear and transparent communication.

• Undertake strategic and business planning initiatives and other actions to improve organizational efficiency and productivity as required.

• Prepare the annual budget, control expenditure, optimize various revenue sources and ensure cost effective operations are implemented and maximized.

• Maintain a high profile and public relations function in the community and province demonstrating a personal commitment to municipal values.

• Serve as an effective liaison with community organizations and provincial and local governments.

• Cultivate economic prosperity – build a strong foundation to support sustainable growth.

• Act as the administrative head of the County, and ensure that the following major administrative duties are performed:

  • Minutes of each Council meeting are recorded and comply with the requirements of the MGA.

  • All bylaws, minutes of Council meetings and other records and documents of the municipality are kept safe.

  • The Minister is sent a list of all the Councillors and any other information the Minister requires within 5 days after the term of the Councilors begins; and

  • The Council is advised in writing of its legislative responsibilities under the MGA.

You will possess:

• A post-secondary degree in a discipline related to municipal service delivery and a minimum of ten years or senior leadership experience.

• Graduate training in leadership, public or business administration is considered an asset.

• A proven record of collaborating effectively with elected officials, local government staff, community volunteers, boards and committees, key stakeholders, and public participation processes.

• Solid fiscal management experience and expertise, especially around planning and budgeting.

• Ability to convey financial information in a manner that can be clearly understood by others.

• Ability to provide strong futuristic leadership and strongly believe in the delegation of both authority and responsibility.

• Working knowledge of the MGA and other relevant municipal legislation. A Certified Local Government Manager designation would be an asset.

• Experience with planning and land development practices, as well as implementing capital works and infrastructure improvement programs.

• An understanding of, and appreciation for, good governance.

• Strong management, analytical and interpersonal skills with the ability to use tact, diplomacy, and mature judgement.