Chief Administrative Officer (CAO)

RM of Pipestone; Manitoba; On-site; CAD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A rural municipality in Manitoba is seeking a Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) to lead municipal administration and ensure effective governance. The CAO will manage financial oversight, human resources, and community engagement, fostering a collaborative environment. Ideal candidates will have extensive experience in municipal management and a commitment to rural community values.

Qualifications

• 5 years of senior municipal management experience, preferably as a CAO.
• Completion of the Manitoba Municipal Administrators Certificate Program or equivalent training.
• Ability to handle stress in a dynamic environment.

Responsibilities

• Administer the business affairs of the municipality in accordance with the Municipal Act.
• Act as an effective liaison between the Council, staff, and the community.
• Manage all aspects of municipal administration including budgeting and service delivery.

Skills

Strategic planning

Financial management

Human resource management

Public relations

Community engagement

Education

Post-Secondary degree in Public Administration or related discipline

Job description

Overview

The RM of Pipestone is located in the southwest corner of Manitoba, resting along the Saskatchewan border and encompassing the communities of Reston, Pipestone, Cromer and Sinclair. Since incorporating almost 136 years ago, the municipality has grown into a prosperous rural area. The discovery of oil and rooted agriculture vitality has led to growth and development of the local economy. Best known for its vibrant oil sector, rural landscapes, sense of history, farming community, and prominent local businesses, Pipestone continues to thrive with momentum and energy! With a population of approximately 1,400, the municipality offers diverse rural living, proximity to thriving urban centres and a safe, friendly, welcoming and easy-going charm and excellent quality of life.

Opportunity

Reporting directly to Council, the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) provides leadership and direction to the team of the RM of Pipestone and is responsible for the overall leadership of the municipality’s administration, including financial oversight, human resource management, and strategic execution of municipal policies and programs. This is a hands-on leadership role requiring a systems-oriented, visible, approachable and adaptable leader who operates with a high degree of integrity, professionalism and commitment to rural community life. The successful incumbent will be a relationship-driven, strategic, transparent, and diplomatic leader who will contribute to effective governance practices, manage daily operations, execute Council’s strategic vision, capitalize on economic growth opportunities and make a lasting impact. The CAO should have the ability to mobilize and empower teams, support Council and engage constructively with community partners, residents, and regional stakeholders. We are seeking an experienced, successful municipal leader. This position offers the opportunity to make a significant contribution to the continued success and growth of an energetic and vibrant rural community.

Key Responsibilities

• Administer the business affairs of the municipality in accordance with the Municipal Act and other statutes of the province.
• Act as an effective liaison between the Council, staff, and the community.
• Responsible for all aspects of municipal administration, including financial planning, budgeting, service delivery and capital projects.
• Manage all administrative matters, create and revisit policies, procedures, and processes, maintaining orderly and efficient documentation.
• Assist Council in the preparation and execution of long-term strategies, capitalizing on growth and economic development opportunities.
• Provide support and advice to Council on policies, programs, new initiatives, governance, and fiscal matters.
• Deliver sound financial planning, budgeting, and management to Council, including consistent and accurate reporting.
• Ensure operational effectiveness for each municipal department and manage expenditures.
• Strategically research and recommend new initiatives, programs, policies and plans for Council discussion and approval.
• Provide supportive leadership and direction to staff and management, fostering an approach focused on collaboration, effective communication, mentorship, and development.
• Attract and retain staff at all levels of the organization and implement succession planning to ensure quality service to residents.
• Manage all human resource functions, including hiring, development, performance management, and team engagement.
• Maintain strong community partnerships with citizens, local business, industry, other municipalities, government, and non-governmental organizations, while playing a key role in promoting and building the community.

Selection Criteria

• Post-Secondary degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Commerce, or related discipline.
• Completion of the Manitoba Municipal Administrators Certificate Program or equivalent training.
• Demonstrated knowledge of the Municipal Act and related statutes or aptitude to understand.
• 5 years of senior municipal management experience, preferably as a CAO.
• Seasoned and empowering leader with ability to handle stress in a dynamic and evolving environment.
• Experience working with and/or reporting to a Board of Directors or Council.
• Strong understanding of strategic planning, finance, risk, governance, IT, human resource management and operations.
• Excellent public relations, interpersonal and communication skills.
• Exceptional relationship building skills and ability to establish credibility and trust with a diverse group of people.
• Superior written and spoken communication skills, coupled with the ability to negotiate, influence, and facilitate.
• Demonstrated political acumen, visionary leader, and solid decision maker with a high level of ethics, values, and integrity.

Practical knowledge in computer systems for business applications and capacity to blend systems, people and process to optimize operations.