Job Description
Niagara-on-the-Lake, one of Canada's most historic and picturesque towns, boasts a rich heritage dating back to its establishment as a settlement for United Empire Loyalists in 1781 and underwent significant reconstruction after the War of 1812 when it served as the first capital of Upper Canada in 1792. With approximately 19,000 permanent residents, the Town attracts millions of visitors annually, drawn to its unique charm, historic landmarks such as Fort George and Brock's Monument, and renowned cultural elements like the Shaw Festival Theatre. Modern attractions, such as the Niagara Outlet Mall, Canada's largest open-air outlet shopping center, also play a significant role in the Town's appeal. Residents benefit from a blend of architectural charm and modern amenities, five distinct villages, and a close-knit community, enjoying a unique culture and many recreational opportunities. Strategically located with access to a thriving economy and major transportation routes, including the Welland Canal, regional airport, and nearby border crossings, Niagara-on-the-Lake remains a vibrant and desirable destination for residents and visitors alike.
The Opportunity
Directly accountable to Council, the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) plays a pivotal role in steering the municipality's administration, safeguarding its operational excellence and vitality. Tasked with executing policies, programs, and services approved by Council, the CAO brings a steady hand and strategic vision to the table. Our sought-after candidate will possess an innate comprehension of the multifaceted challenges looming over the municipality, ensuring Council receives the necessary information for informed decision-making, thus fostering a collaborative and effective governance environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Executive Leadership and Administration: Orchestrating the day-to-day operations and performance of the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, the incumbent will lead the Senior Management team, exemplifying unparalleled standards of leadership and setting a compelling example within the municipality.
- Strategic Planning and Policy Implementation: Acting as a strategic advisor to the Lord Mayor and Council, the candidate will contribute innovative insights, recommendations, and up-to-the-minute information on legislative, political, social, and economic trends, guiding the Council towards achieving its strategic imperatives.
- Relationship and Community Engagement: Cultivating and nurturing positive relationships with Council, staff, community partners, neighboring municipalities, and governmental bodies at all levels, the candidate will ensure a cohesive and collaborative approach to municipal governance.
- Financial Oversight: Masterminding the preparation and presentation of operational and capital budgets, the successful candidate will navigate fiscal matters with finesse, administering financial affairs in alignment with approved estimates and budgets.
- Human Resources Management: Fostering a culture of innovation and staff development, the incumbent will spearhead initiatives to create and sustain an enticing work environment, attracting and retaining top-tier talent.
- Governance and Compliance: Enforcing strict adherence to Town policies, procedures, and regulations, the appointee will ensure compliance with Federal and Provincial laws, upholding the utmost standards of confidentiality and integrity.
- Operational Excellence and Service Delivery: Fostering a culture of continuous improvement, the candidate will champion customer service excellence, placing public satisfaction at the forefront of municipal operations.
Candidate Profile
The ideal candidate will lead with a deep commitment to public service, strategically managing the unique challenges of the Town and Region. This pivotal leadership role demands effective relationship-building and communication with Council, regulatory officials, and community stakeholders, alongside proven expertise in strategic plan development and implementation. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a track record of excellence in strategic plan development and implementation, coupled with an innate ability to manage diverse priorities. As a visionary leader, the CAO will inspire and motivate teams while driving innovation and adaptability, fostering a dynamic environment primed for success, while keeping up with public administration trends.
A dynamic individual who excels in change management, the CAO will be capable of identifying and implementing organizational changes while effectively communicating with stakeholders. Exceptional decision-making skills are essential, with the ability to make informed choices promptly, even with limited data. Strategic thinking is crucial, as the candidate will need to align tasks and initiatives with the organization's long-term vision and goals, driving sustainable growth and success.
Qualifications
- MBA or Degree in public administration, political science, or a related field.
- Ten years of progressive experience in a senior management role, preferably in public administration.
- AMCTO or Certified Municipal Officer (CMO) designation is desirable.