Overview

Our client, the City of Bathurst (COB), is expanding their Fire Services team as a result of the municipal reform. COB is hiring an Executive Director (ED) of Fire Services to join the team. This is a new role reporting to the Chief Administration Officer (CAO) of COB. The ED of Fire Services will be responsible for the fire service operations within the new amalgamated Bathurst region.

As the ED, you will oversee all aspects of fire protection, prevention, and emergency response services within the newly formed entity. The ED will be responsible for both the volunteer and career firefighters who will also be amalgamating under one entity.

The successful candidate will have 2 Fire Chief direct reports and will be responsible for strategic planning, operational management, and community engagement to ensure Bathurst's residents' and visitors' safety and well-being during this transition.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage both Fire departments, ensuring high standards of performance and professionalism.
• Develop and implement strategic plans for fire services, including fire prevention, education, and emergency response.
• Develop and manage the department's budget, resources, and assets.
• Ensure fire services goals and objectives are supported, and resources are aligned and assigned to support the strategic direction.
• Provide support for recruiting initiatives and participate in hiring and promotional routines as required.
• Establish priorities and align resources to ensure effective and efficient service delivery in accordance with strategic priorities, policies, and operating guidelines.
• Promote strong labour management and stakeholder relationships and respond to labour management issues as needed.
• Represent COB Fire Services in grievance proceedings as appropriate, including the coordination of alternative dispute resolution processes.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation, regulations, and best practices.
• Monitor, evaluate and manage the performance of Fire Chiefs and other assigned staff; set performance standards and conduct performance appraisals annually.
• Enforce operational guidelines, occupational health and safety standards, regulations, policies, systems and procedures for safe and efficient fire service operations.
• Develop and maintain working relationships and/or networks of contacts with Federal, Provincial and Municipal regulatory authorities and the private sector to further the organization's goals as needed.
• Conduct regular risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies to enhance community safety.
• Work with COB departments to respond to personnel matters and administer performance management and progressive discipline processes as necessary.
• Participate in an "On Call Duty Officer" rotation as required.
• Manage career/volunteer firefighters, administration and support members.
• Foster strong relationships with other emergency services, municipal departments, and community organizations.
• Coordinate and manage emergency response efforts, including fire suppression, rescue operations, and hazardous material incidents.
• Promote fire safety education and awareness programs within the community.
• Represent the City of Bathurst at regional and provincial fire service meetings and events.

Education & Experience

• Post-secondary education in Project Management, Adult Education, Fire Science, Emergency Management, Public Administration, Business Administration, or other related discipline.
• Minimum ten (10) years of experience in the fire/emergency service(s), with knowledge of various facets of fire/emergency operations.
• Minimum three (3) years of experience at the Chief level or equivalent Fire Management positions.
• Proven experience in strategic planning, budget management, and personnel development.
• Strong knowledge of fire service regulations, standards, and best practices.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in high-pressure situations and make sound decisions in emergencies.
• Valid driver's license and ability to respond to emergencies within the city limits.

How to Apply

Interested applicants are asked to submit a PDF of their resume and a cover letter to [email protected]. For questions, please contact Maggie Rogers at [email protected] or 506.424.1796.

We thank all interested applicants. However, only those selected for an interview will be selected.

The City of Bathurst is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to hiring skilled and professional individuals who share our vision to enhance further our dynamic community and the relationships with our community partners. The City of Bathurst supports and encourages diversity, equity, and inclusion by providing a welcoming and respectful workplace for all.