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OPPORTUNITY PROFILE CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER
OPPORTUNITY PROFILE
CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER
TOWN OF COCHRANE – Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) 1
THE TOWN OF COCHRANE – THE COMMUNITY Cochrane is a vibrant, progressive, family-friendly community located just 35 minutes northwest of downtown Calgary. The Town is nestled in the legendary Bow River valley steeped in Native and pioneer lore, boasting a breathtaking view of the majestic Rocky Mountains, only 45 minutes away. Although much has changed since the days of the original CP Rail Station, stone quarry and brick plants, the entrepreneurial spirit and handshake hospitality of Cochrane remains true to its western heritage. Cochrane is one of the fastest growing communities in Canada, and with a population of 29,277 in 2019, it is one of the largest towns in Alberta. It is part of Calgary's census metropolitan area and a member community of the Calgary Metropolitan Region Board (CMRB). The town is surrounded by Rocky View County.
For more information, please visit: www.cochrane.ca
THE POSITION Cochrane’s Town Council is currently seeking a new Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) who will embrace the Town’s entrepreneurial legacy and lead a highly motivated and talented team. This is a unique opportunity given Cochrane’s ideal location, world class amenities, strong municipal growth plan and infectious community spirit. This role will appeal to individuals with a proven track record of leadership, financial acumen, political savvy, and the ability to work collaboratively with Council, staff, citizens, government and other community partners. The CAO reports to the Mayor and Council and plays an integral advisory role, working together to support the development and implementation of strategic objectives and policies in accordance with legislation. The CAO occupies a special position in relation to Council and is the link to the rest of the organization; leading the Town staff and other stakeholders, bringing Council’s vision forward to become reality! Key areas of focus for this role will be continuing to build a trusting and collaborative culture of excellence within the organization, innovation and continuous improvement, strong financial leadership and continuing to build relationships with government, businesses and other stakeholders to attract business and industry to the municipality.
TOWN OF COCHRANE – Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) 2
REPORTING TO THE CAO The Town has 220+ employees reporting to the CAO through one Manager and through the 4 General Managers on the senior leadership team including:
• General Manager, Legislative & Protective Services • General Manager, Infrastructure & Operational Services • General Manager, Development & Community Services • General Manager, Corporate Services • Manager, Human Resources
SPECIFIC DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES The CAO will support the Municipality, its Council, staff and residents in realizing the Town’s full potential by providing leadership in the following areas: 1. Acts as counsel to the elected Mayor and Council on a wide range of municipal matters and supports
the implementation of Council-related priorities within the municipal framework. 2. Establishes strategic direction based on Council priorities and continual assessment of the
environment and emerging trends, issues and opportunities that may impact the municipality. 3. Provides leadership to ensure that all Town policies and programs of the municipality are efficiently
coordinated, implemented and delivered in a responsive way consistent with Council-identified priorities.
4. Provides mentorship and strategic support to the members of the Senior Leadership Team to ensure the planned implementation of the corporate strategy is carried out.
5. Ensures an effective governance framework which provides appropriate direction and parameters for operational systems, practices and procedures ensuring compliance with legislation, regulations, corporate policies, procedure and guidelines.
6. Actively participates and provides counsel as a key member to the Senior Leadership team entrusted with confidential information provided at all leadership, Council and public meetings/forums.
7. Builds strong working relationships with internal and external stakeholders to foster healthy relationships to advance the Town objectives of municipal excellence and sustainable intergovernmental relations.
8. Attends and participates in local events and functions in the interest of corporate and community relations.
9. Responsible for the annual operating and capital budget preparation process. Defines appropriate long-term financial objectives and sets annual goals consistent with the business strategy.
10. Effectively communicates and demonstrates the vision and values to all employees. Serves as a role model of these values and creates and builds a culture of trust and integrity throughout the organization.
THE NEW CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER • The ideal candidate is a proven leader, with relevant post-secondary education and senior
management experience in either the public or private sectors. Previous municipal government experience is ideal, but not a requirement. Candidates who bring strong leadership together with
TOWN OF COCHRANE – Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) 3
demonstrated business and financial acumen from working with other complex organizations will also be considered. A CLGM or LGA designation is likewise desirable, however, other combinations of experience and credentials will also be considered.
• The successful candidate will have highly developed interpersonal, communication, and public relations skills, have demonstrated success in leading progressive administrative teams, and building strong relationships with stakeholders. Success in economic development will also be an asset.
KEY COMPETENCIES & SUCCESS FACTORS • Leadership Skills – Demonstrates authentic leadership style giving guidance and support, a mentor
and positive role model. Fosters a safe culture of empowerment and trust, encouraging employee engagement. Leads by example with an engaging style. Has a consistent approach to working respectfully with others. Works well at all levels and adapts to “changing hats” from working with council to internal staff to the community.
• Management Skills –-Proven record of being able to inspire, direct and evaluate people and activities of a complex organization. Excellent conflict resolutions skills. Sets objectives which are specific and clearly communicated, measurable, realistically achievable, and time targeted, and holding people accountable for their results. Seeks out, appreciates, and acknowledges input from others.
• Visionary – “Fresh eyes & Fresh Thinking”. Understands and interprets social, economic and political trends and issues facing municipalities. Innovative, open -minded and willing to explore new ideas and approaches.
• Human Resource Management –Supportive leader who demonstrates empathy and emotional intelligence with the ability to bring diverse individuals, departments and program initiatives together. Consensus builder with excellent conflict resolution skills. Ability to balance directing staff and trusting their judgement and actions.
• Financial Management, Corporate and Strategic Planning – Leads with a strong sense of service, urgency and accountability in all financial planning, budgeting, and management reporting. A proven ability to work in challenging fiscal environments. Relationship builder with strong “business and financial acumen” to assist in economic development and other initiatives.
• Strong Communication and Interpersonal Skills – Builds trust through clear, concise and positive communication. Works collaboratively with others and is sensitive to diverse needs of staff, council and the community. Possesses an honest, open and consistent approach to working with people. Highly ethical, honest, forthright and transparent.
• Politically Astute – Ensures high level of confidentiality and decorum at all time. Possesses an intuitive ability to read the political implications of recommendations and actions. Demonstrates a senior executive personal style with professional presence.
• Customer Service – Confidence in ensuring customer needs are identified and addressed; ensuring appropriate consultation with all stakeholders and deliver timely, cost effective and quality service. Simplifies often complex and lengthy matters and runs an administration that is service oriented.
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WORK ENVIRONMENT • The position of CAO for the Town of Cochrane will be very rewarding, yet demanding in nature, with
high cognitive and psycho-social demands, extended work hours and travel off-site as required.
• A genuine passion and commitment to the Town of Cochrane is essential, with a willingness to be embedded and visible in the community. It is preferred that the successful candidate resides within the town.
COMPENSATION
A competitive compensation package will be provided including an attractive base salary and excellent benefits. Further details will be discussed in a personal interview. PLEASE CONTACT Laura Youngberg, Allan Nelson or Chelsey Howarth Leaders International Phone: (403) 263-0600 Email: [email protected]
