Position Details:
Employer: Town of Elk Point
Location: Elk Point, AB
Industry: Municipal Government
Position Outline:
TOWN OF ELK POINT, AB
Nestled in green rolling hills on the banks of the North Saskatchewan River, the Town of Elk Point (www.elkpoint.ca) is rich in culture, history, and opportunity. Located approximately two hours northeast of Edmonton, 20 minutes southeast of St Paul, 30 minutes south of Bonnyville, and 40 minutes north of Vermilion, the picturesque Town of Elk Point has a population of 1,500 residents.
The Town offers a safe environment to raise a family, an abundance of both indoor and outdoor recreational opportunities (including an arena, curling rink, golf course, riding arena, pickleball courts, ball diamonds, soccer pitches, etc.), excellent educational opportunities, local professional healthcare practitioners and facilities, emergency management services (i.e., RCMP, fire services, and ambulance), and a local airport…to note a few key attractions and amenities.
With the full support of the Council and the community, Elk Point is a hub for business and investment opportunities (including industrial hemp, oil and gas, agriculture, tourism, aerospace, technology, defence, petrochemicals, agri-foods, financial services, cleantech, etc.). From available serviced parcels of land, enticing tax incentives, to streamlined application processes, the Town is prepared for economic development, continued investment, and growth.
POSITION OVERVIEW
Reports to: Mayor & Four Elected Councillors
Total Staff: 12 FT Town Staff
Budget: Combined - $5M
Organizational Structure:
RESPONSIBILITIES & FUNCTIONS OVERVIEW
The Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) is the sole employee of Council, and the administrative head of the municipality responsible for implementing the strategic direction as set out by the Council and coordinating the planning of departmental priorities and programs which align with corporate goals and objectives. Central to this role is the establishment of effective professional relationships and communication between Council, administration, neighbouring municipalities, Treaty 6 First Nation Members, Fishing Lake Metis Settlement, local businesses, potential investors, the Provincial Government, and the public.
Additionally, the CAO will ensure:
Positive Council Relations:
- Support the Mayor and Council in determining policy by providing objective advice, clearly articulated alternatives, current and relevant background research, and ongoing counsel. Ensure that effective policy decisions are being made in accordance with legislation such as the Municipal Government Act (MGA).
Solid Leadership & Management:
- Develop and uphold an effective organizational structure for the staff that reflects operational needs, and that is directed towards accomplishing the objectives.
Economic Development/Growth Focus:
- Work closely with the Mayor and Council, and regional partners, to implement and carry out an economic development focus to promote local businesses and attract new businesses/industry to the Town of Elk Point.
- Promote an “open for business” mindset and strive for new and innovative practices.
Transparent Communication & Public Relations:
- Ensure that Town staff are committed to providing the highest level of service, as well as effective and transparent communication (both internally and externally), and ensure it remains an on-going priority.
Continued Professional Working Relationships with Key Stakeholders:
- This includes existing businesses, potential investors, municipal partners, Treaty 6 First Nations members (i.e., Frog Lake First Nations, Kehewin Cree Nation, Cold Lake First Nations, and Saddle Lake Cree Nation), and the Fishing Lake Metis Settlement.
Proper Legislative Practices:
- Provide efficient and cost-effective procurement of goods and services, and make sure that proper records are maintained.
- Direct and supervise the implementation of the policies and programs of the Council and reporting regularly of the progress thereon to Council.
Effective Human Resource Management:
- Provide leadership and support to the employees of the Town to capitalize on the full potential of these critical resources. Stimulate, motivate, coach, and direct all individuals to contribute fully to the realization of the Town’s strategic and operational objectives.
- Provide leadership and support to volunteers as directed by Council.
Proper Financial Administration:
- Work collaboratively with the Director of Corporate & Community Services to ensure appropriate financial and administrative systems are in place that maximize the effectiveness of resource utilization within the objectives, policies, and budgets of Council.
- Together with the Director, monitor and control municipal spending within the operational and capital budgets established by Council.
- Administer the municipal taxation process including the collection of taxes and management of overdue accounts, and the sale of properties in arrears of taxes and in accordance with the tax sale process established in the MGA.
Ongoing Strategic Planning:
- Support the Mayor and Council in the formulation and updating of the Strategic Plan for the Town. This plan will chart a future, identify critical issues, and set annual objectives and strategies.
- Create a dynamic climate that results in the continual search for a new and more effective approaches to fulfilling the Town’s mandate.
Other:
- Attend Town meetings and community events as required, which may include evenings and/or weekends.
- Ensure the implementation of a Health & Safety program and policy requirements including maintaining a safe and secure workplace environment.
- Perform any other duties as may be required by Council.
SKILLS & ATTRIBUTES OVERVIEW
The successful candidate is expected to demonstrate the following competencies and behaviours to successfully meet the requirements of the position:
- Leadership & Teamwork
- Economic Development/Growth
- Strategic Planning & Visionary
- Communication & Interpersonal
- Professional Relationships
- Customer Service
- Ethical & Professional
- Financial/Grant Management
- Technical Knowledge
- Volunteer Service
- Self Confidence
- Politically Astute
- Human Resource Management
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE OVERVIEW
The ideal candidate will demonstrate the following qualifications, or an equivalent blend with an emphasis on administrative leadership.
- Post-secondary education in public administration, business, or a related field is desirable. A Certified Local Government Manager (CLGM) designation would be an asset.
- At least five (5) years of related and progressive senior leadership experience, preferably in a local government setting.
- Proven experience leading employees in a dynamic and multi-dimensional service organization, coupled with the ability to integrate and implement complex planning and policy initiatives.
- A demonstrated record of working effectively with elected officials, indigenous groups, volunteer boards, stakeholder groups, industry and business, various levels of government (local, provincial, and federal), public participation process, as well as the public.
- Capacity to adapt your leadership and management style to the needs of Council and to understand the culture of the organization and community.
- Previous Economic Development, Land Development, and Land Use Planning exposure and understanding.
- Prior exposure with Municipally Controlled Corporations (MCCs) would be an asset.
- Working knowledge of the MGA, other relevant municipal legislation, and in delivering municipal services.
COMPENSATION
A competitive compensation package will be provided to the successful candidate. This includes an attractive base salary, a comprehensive benefits package, LAPP (Local Authorities Pension Plan), as well as the supplemental APEX pension plan. Details will be discussed in further conversations.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT
James Davies, Managing Director
DCG Executive Search Services Ltd.
(780) 758-9796