Chief Administrative Officer (CAO)

RM of Cornwallis; Brandon; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

The RM of Cornwallis is seeking a dynamic Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) to lead its municipal organization. This key role focuses on providing strategic direction while managing services and engaging with the community, requiring strong leadership and a collaborative approach.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of municipal operations and The Municipal Act.
• Experience managing budgets and financial reporting in a municipal context.
• Effective people leadership skills in a small municipal environment.

Responsibilities

• Provide professional advice to Council for effective decision-making.
• Lead aspects of municipal administration including financial planning.
• Manage human resource functions and foster a collaborative workplace.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Education

Post-secondary education in public administration or related discipline

CMMA designation or equivalent experience

Job description

Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Employer: RM of Cornwallis Location: Brandon, Manitoba Application Deadline: TBD

Job Description:

The Rural Municipality of Cornwallis, located in southwestern Manitoba and surrounding the City of Brandon, is seeking a dynamic and experienced Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) to lead the organization into its next chapter. This is an exciting opportunity for a collaborative and forward-thinking leader to bring strategic direction, operational stability, and renewed energy to a municipality poised for growth and modernization. As CAO, you will be a key partner to Council and the community in shaping the RM’s future. In this role, you will serve as the administrative head of the municipality and principal advisor to Council. Reporting directly to Council, you will oversee a dedicated team across administration and public works, ensuring the effective delivery of services while advancing longer-term initiatives that support community priorities. This is a hands-on leadership role requiring a systems-oriented, approachable, and adaptable leader who brings professionalism, integrity, and a deep commitment to rural community life.
You are a strategic and transparent municipal leader who values good governance and brings a people-first approach to leadership. With strong communication skills and a practical mindset, you empower your team, support Council, and engage constructively with residents, partners, and regional stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities:
Provide informed, professional advice to Council, supporting effective policy and decision-making.
– Lead all aspects of municipal administration, including financial planning, budgeting, service delivery, and
capital project oversight.
– Oversee the preparation of agendas, reports, and minutes for Council and committees, ensuring
compliance with legislative requirements.
– Maintain the RM’s financial health through effective budget management, cash flow oversight, and
transparent reporting.
– Foster a collaborative and service-oriented workplace culture by supporting and supervising staff across
departments.
– Manage all human resource functions, including hiring, development, performance management, and
team engagement.
– Strengthen intergovernmental relations with neighbouring municipalities, the City of Brandon, and
provincial and planning bodies.
– Promote open communication and active engagement with residents, stakeholders, and the broader
community.
You and Your Experience:
– Solid knowledge of municipal operations and The Municipal Act, with proven administrative and
legislative expertise.
– Post-secondary education in public administration, business, accounting, or a related discipline; a CMMA
designation or equivalent experience is considered an asset.
– Demonstrated success managing budgets, financial reporting, and long-term planning in a municipal
context.
– Effective people leadership skills, with experience managing teams in a small or rural municipal
– environment.
– Skilled communicator with political acuity and the ability to build strong relationships across diverse
stakeholders.
– Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving abilities.

For further information about this career
opportunity, please feel free to contact
Janelle Robin at [phone].

We thank all applicants for their interest;
however, only those selected will be
contacted for an interview