Chief Administrative Officer

Lakeland HR Solutions; Alberta; On-site; CAD 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A rural municipality in Alberta is seeking a Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) to lead and guide operations while advocating for the community. The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 5-10 years of experience in senior management with a solid background in public administration or related fields. Responsibilities include strategic leadership, financial management, and fostering community relationships. This long-term opportunity promises a meaningful impact within the county, making it suitable for those dedicated to public service and capable of adaptive leadership.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Dedicated municipal team

Proximity to urban centres

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5–10 years of progressive senior management experience, preferably in a rural municipal setting.
• Strong business mindset with the ability to manage finances, operations, and strategic priorities.
• Comprehensive knowledge of the Alberta Municipal Government Act (MGA) and related legislation.

Responsibilities

• Provide overall leadership and administrative management for Smoky Lake County.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to Council.
• Ensure sound financial stewardship and preparation of budgets.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Financial Management

Strategic Planning

Community Engagement

Legislation Compliance

Education

Post-secondary credentials in public administration, business, or finance

Completion of Local Authority Administration (LGA) Level I and II

Job description

Hiring: Chief Administrative Officer (CAO)

Smoky Lake County, Alberta

Smoky Lake 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 approximately 120 km northeast of Edmonton, Smoky Lake County offers the balance of rural life with convenient access to urban amenities. The County features diverse industry sectors; including thriving agriculture, oil and gas, forestry, aggregate, and tourism. Their focus is a commitment to public service, ensuring access to healthcare and emergency services, fostering education, encouraging cultural diversity, enhancing recreation, and promoting housing diversity.

This is a long-term leadership opportunity for someone who wants to build deep connections, grow within their role, and make a meaningful impact in the county. The ideal candidate will bring energy, vision, and dedication, not just management skills, ensuring they remain fully engaged and invested. The CAO will lead and guide day-to-day operations, act as a trusted advisor to Council, and foster strong relationships with residents, staff, neighbouring municipalities, and stakeholders. The ideal candidate will bring stability, long-term commitment, and a people-centred leadership style.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide overall leadership and administrative management for Smoky Lake County in alignment with the council’s strategic direction.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to Council, offering fact-based advice, transparency, research, and support for policy development and decision-making.
• Oversee departmental operations, including public works, finance, planning and development, agricultural services, community services, and administration.
• Ensure sound financial stewardship, including preparation and management of the County’s operating and capital budgets.
• Promote effective communication and collaboration between council, staff, community stakeholders, residents, community organizations, and other levels of government.
• Maintain compliance with all applicable legislation, including the Municipal Government Act (MGA) and other relevant provincial regulations.
• Champion organizational development, employee engagement, and service delivery improvements.
• Lead and support strategic planning, economic development initiatives, and county sustainability projects.
• Lead community engagement, ensuring transparency, accessibility, and strong two-way communication.

Qualifications

• A minimum of 5–10 years of progressive senior management experience, preferably within a rural municipal setting.
• Post-secondary credentials in public administration, business, finance, or related fields are an asset, but not required.
• Completion of Local Authority Administration (LGA) Level I and II and an active Certified Local Government Managers (CLGM) designation (or willingness to obtain).
• Strong business mindset with the ability to manage finances, operations, and strategic priorities effectively.
• Comprehensive knowledge of the Alberta Municipal Government Act (MGA) and related legislation.
• Highly effective communicator, proven ability to positively engage with council, staff, and residents.
• A commitment to fostering a positive workplace culture and continuous improvement.
• Adaptive leadership style, collaborative, yet decisive when needed.
• Must reside within Smoky Lake County or have a genuine willingness to relocate and make meaningful roots in the community.
• Personal integrity, openness, and a long-term commitment mindset.

Why Smoky Lake County?

Smoky Lake County is proud of its heritage, scenic beauty, and high quality of life. From the Iron Horse Trail to local lakes, festivals, and historic sites, residents enjoy year-round recreation and a strong sense of community. With affordable living, safe communities, and proximity to urban centres, Smoky Lake County is an ideal place for leaders seeking both professional challenge and personal fulfillment.

This is your opportunity to lead a dynamic municipality and contribute to its long-term success while living in a region known for its natural charm and welcoming spirit.

What Smoky Lake Offers

• A leadership role where your influence is tangible, and your commitment valued
• A dedicated and experienced municipal team behind you
• Proximity to Urban Centres paired with a strong rural lifestyle
• A chance to lead an organization deeply tied to its county’s values and future
• Competitive salary and benefit structure (to be discussed with shortlisted candidates)

Application Deadline

January 16, 2026, 4:00pm. The competition may remain open until a suitable candidate is found, and the closing date may be extended if necessary.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Smoky Lake County is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all qualified individuals.