Director of Community Services

Director of Community Services

Municipal District of Bighorn

About the Municipal District of Bighorn:

The Municipal District (MD) of Bighorn No. 8 is a rural municipality located in a beautiful natural setting. A community of unique communities, the MD is characterized by ranching and other agricultural uses, industrial uses, low impact tourism facilities, hamlets, and large tracts of undeveloped crown land reserved for forestry activities. It is recognized that the quality of life of our residents is tied to a healthy, natural environment, and a robust economy.

Why Work for us?

Employees benefit from competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and a supportive workplace culture focused on work-life balance, innovation, and community development. The MD of Bighorn is an ideal place for those seeking meaningful public service in a dynamic environment.

Summary:

Reporting to the CAO, the Director of Community Services is responsible for the overall administration of the MD of Bighorn’s Fire Services, Emergency Management, Enforcement Services, and Community Support Services. 

This senior leadership position is responsible for the Director of Emergency Management (DEM) duties and has three (3) direct reports: Fire Chief, Sergeant of Enforcement Services, and the Community Services Coordinator. 

Hours of Work:  

Business hours are Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and flexibility is required. 

Salary:

The salary for this position starts at S187,183.87. 

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

Leadership & Collaboration

• Provide visionary leadership and strategic direction for the planning, delivery, and continuous improvement of the Community Services Department including fire protection, emergency management, enforcement services, and community support programs.

• Provide supervision to direct report staff through coordination of duties, assignment of tasks, and review of workloads. 

• Oversee the development and implementation of departmental goals, policies, and service standards to ensure alignment with Council priorities and community needs.

• Ensure effective operational management through the coordination of budgets, staffing, and resource allocation across multiple service areas.

• Work with senior leadership, elected officials, and external partners to advance strategic initiatives and enhance community well-being. 

• Provide recommendations to the CAO and Council regarding matters relating to Community Services Department.

• Responsible for the administration and management of all documents, studies, reports, and projects that relate to fire protection, emergency management, enforcement services, and community support programs.

• Collaborate effectively with internal departments and cross-functional teams to ensure cohesive service delivery, streamline operations, and support shared organizational goals.

• Monitor emerging trends, legislative changes, and risk factors to proactively adapt services and maintain regulatory compliance.

• Translate strategic goals into operational plans, setting clear objectives, performance indicators, and timelines for departmental teams.

• Promote a customer service culture, ensuring that all public-facing operations are welcoming, inclusive, and responsive to resident needs.

• Cultivate strong community relationships while upholding professionalism and public confidence.

• Advisor to the Protective Services Committee, providing expert guidance, strategic input, and departmental insight to support informed decision-making and effective governance.

• Responsible for the preparation of annual levels of service for the delivery of the Community Services Department.

• Perform additional duties and responsibilities as assigned by the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO).

Policy, Planning & Compliance

• Lead the development, review, and amendment of municipal bylaws, departmental policies, and operational plans to ensure alignment with organizational goals, community needs, and evolving legislative requirements, as they relate to the Community Services Department.

• Establish and implement operational guidelines grounded in best practices, relevant legislation, and regulatory frameworks to support consistent, transparent, and effective service delivery.

• Monitor changes in provincial and federal legislation, assess their impact on the Community Services Department, and proactively update policies and procedures to maintain compliance and operational excellence.

• Ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations, including those related to public safety, accessibility, privacy, employment standards, and health and safety.

Emergency Management

• Serve as the Director of Emergency Management for the municipality, providing leadership in the coordination and execution of emergency preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation strategies.

• Plan, coordinate, and facilitate regular tabletop exercises and emergency training sessions to ensure municipal staff and partners are well-prepared and capable of responding effectively to a range of emergency scenarios.

• Maintain and update the Municipal Emergency Management Plan (MEMP) in alignment with provincial legislation and local needs.

• Lead post-incident reviews to assess municipal response effectiveness and implement improvements.

• Act as the primary liaison with provincial emergency management authorities, local first responders, and community stakeholders to ensure coordinated and compliant emergency operations.

 Financial & Resource Management

• Develop, manage, and monitor the annual operating and capital budgets for all divisions within the Community Services Department, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities and fiscal policies.

• Prepare detailed financial reports and forecasts for senior leadership and Council, providing insights into budget variances, funding needs, and long-term financial planning.

• Oversee procurement processes and ensure compliance with municipal purchasing policies and relevant legislation.

Human Resources & Staff Development

• Provide leadership, training, mentorship, and development opportunities for the Community Services Department employees. 

• In collaboration with the CAO and the People & Culture Manager (HR), lead the development and execution of strategies to support effective recruitment, employee retention, and succession planning.

• In consultation with the CAO and HR, reward or discipline direct reports, as required, in accordance with municipal policy and applicable legislation. 

• Complete staff performance and evaluation reviews for direct reports in accordance with municipal policy, culture, and standards as well as applicable legislation. 

• Promote a positive and safe work culture with accountability and transparency by actively participating in the organizations Health and Safety Culture.

Communication

• Act as the departmental representative at Council meetings, deliver prepared presentations, convey key initiatives, and respond to inquiries regarding the Community Services Department with professionalism and clarity.

• Represent the organization in public settings, advise on community needs, and foster external relationships.

Qualifications & Skills:

• A post-secondary degree in business, public administration, social services, or a related field, or a combination of relevant education and work experience may be considered.

• Five (5) to ten (10) years management or leadership experience in a municipal or related government setting. 

• A professional designation related to any of the portfolio areas is considered an asset.

• Have a minimum Level 300 certification in Incident Command System (ICS).

• Holding a Director of Emergency Management (DEM) certification is an additional asset. 

• Minimum Level I Safety Codes Inspector & Investigator, Level II is an additional asset.

• Knowledge of the Municipal Government Act, related legislation, municipal policies and practices.

• Experience developing and implementing bylaws, policies, best management practices, standards, and specifications.

• Ability to operate effectively in high-pressure and emergency situations, maintaining composure, sound judgment, and focus under stress.

• Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication abilities, with proven presentation and negotiation expertise.

• Excellent time management and organizational skills, along with adaptability in responding to unexpected or changing priorities.

• Demonstrate excellent conflict resolution and stakeholder management skills. 

• Proven ability to lead, mentor, and motivate staff while cultivating a collaborative team environment. 

• Demonstrates a strong commitment to accountability and transparency in the delivery of all departmental services. 

• Strong political insight, professionalism, and commitment to ethical conduct and confidentiality

• Proficiency in computer applications including the Microsoft Office Suite. 

• Possess a valid Class 5 Driver's License 

• A clean criminal record check is required as a condition of employment.

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