Job Description
Located in the heart of Nova Scotia, the Municipality of the County of Colchester is a geographically diverse, economically innovative, and highly engaged community of approximately 51,500 people. The County of Colchester, which was at first part of Halifax County, was established as a county in its own right in 1835 and takes pride in being a regional leader in sustainable economic development, green infrastructure, solid waste, and sewage treatment technologies, and reinvigorated recreation services which provide the opportunity for residents to live healthy, active lifestyles.
The Municipality is now seeking its next Chief Administrative Officer who will work closely with a forward-thinking Council and play an integral role in shaping the future of the region’s growing communities.
Key Responsibilities
Reporting to the Municipal Council, the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) will be responsible for providing leadership in the development and administration of all programs, by-laws, policies, and other strategic initiatives set by Council. As CAO, you will direct and manage the daily administration of the Municipality by providing clear leadership and direction to staff and ensuring the delivery of high-quality services in a timely, responsible, and cost-effective manner.
You will steward the Municipality’s $38 million budget for capital and operating expenditures, and you will oversee the smooth operation of a broad range of functions including administration, corporate services, community development, public works, and solid waste management. You will build upon a strong economic development agenda by fostering partnerships and building relationships with stakeholders across the region and beyond.
Ideal Candidate Profile
As the ideal candidate, you are a dynamic, seasoned leader with proven experience and understanding of the broad range of functions within a diverse, multi-stakeholder environment. Ideally you have had direct or indirect experience with municipal programs and services. You are adaptable with a reputation for fostering a work environment characterized by respect, collaboration, inclusivity, and productivity at all levels. Strategic, thoughtful and results oriented, you possess strong management and financial acumen, and excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills. You are comfortable working within a publicly accountable context and managing operations, finances, and human resources. You have the strategic aptitude and the high degree of business judgment needed to align organizational efforts to efficiently turn goals into results.
A natural collaborator, you have a deep appreciation for creating and fostering mutually beneficial partnerships within your community and region. Empathetic and authentic in your leadership style, you are a highly effective communicator and an innovative leader who can motivate and inspire your team in working toward a common vision. You are reliable and diplomatic and approach your work with the highest degree of integrity, effectively creating an environment where your team and organizational partners alike feel supported, trusted and engaged.