Under the supervision of Town Council, the Chief Administrative Officer will be responsible for the administration of Town affairs within the policies and bylaws established by Town Council and within the Nova Scotia Municipal Government Act. They will provide corporate leadership for the general management and stewardship for the Town of Stellarton. The CAO works cohesively with elected officials, residents, community organizations, industry, agencies, neighbouring municipalities and other stakeholders to advance the strategic priorities of the municipality as defined by Council and the Strategic Plan.

The Town is governed by a Mayor and four Councillors and employs up to 45 individuals in both unionized and non-unionized positions. The annual operating budget is approximately $10 million. The Town owns and operates streets, water treatment and distribution, wastewater collection, police department, volunteer fire department, municipal buildings and various recreation facilities. In addition, the Town is involved in several inter-municipal agreements for the provision of solid waste, wastewater treatment and public transit.

Key responsibilities

Leadership:

• Carry out short and long range planning on all facets of the town operations resulting in exercising of appropriate actions and preparation of reports and recommendations to Council;

• Hold staff department committee meetings to meet and discuss matters of common interest in an effort of efficiencies and clear communication;

• Confront challenges in a direct, constructive manner that addresses such matters as resource limitations, infrastructure renewal, managing rising debt and financials deficits;

• Promote employee engagement by cultivating a safe, supportive high-performance work environment; • Improve the efficiency and effectiveness of programs and services via continuous process improvement;

• Deliver municipal services and programs that achieve and support a safe and healthy community;

• Lead, provide direction, guidance and assistance to all Department Heads, ensure they perform their duties and assume necessary duties and responsibilities in their absence;

Support for Council

• Develop and maintain a meaningful relationship of trust with Council;

• Be knowledgeable in all areas of finance- municipal, provincial, federal as they relate to the effective and economic operation of the Town and its agencies;

• Confer with other Municipal Units respecting matters of mutual interest;

• Act as a resource person for Town Council, ensuring that all matters of specific concern to Town Council are placed on the agenda of appropriate meetings- providing backup information and recommendations when required;

• Assist and support the Mayor during Council and Committee meetings;

Budget and Finance

• Prepare and monitor the Council approved financial plan through the development, presentation and management of operational and capital budgets;

• Maintain and be responsible for collection procedures pertaining to tax sales and water collections;

• To ensure all books, records, minutes, and accounts of the Town Council are maintained; Municipal Administration and Development

• Create and implement business plans, overseeing capital works and infrastructure programs;

• Coordinate long term land-use, economic development, financial and capital planning;

• Responsible for motivating, assisting, correcting and disciplining Office Staff and Department Heads subject to the HR Policies;

• Administer and coordinate any and all negotiations with CUPE and PANS;

Legislative Responsibilities

• Confer with Town Solicitor, Dangerous and Unsightly By-law Officer, Municipal Planner and Finance Personnel on Town matters;

• Attend meetings of Council as well as boards, committees, commissions, or other bodies as may be required;

• Provide support to the Mayor in their legislative duties;

• Have continuous review of governing regulations, by-laws and policy statements and ensure the formulation of necessary revisions and additions when necessary;

• Confer with provincial and federal authorities and staff personnel respecting programs and regulations of interest to the Town and its agencies;

Comprehension and Judgment

The incumbent must possess an in-depth understanding and ability to interpret the policies of the Town. An ability to effectively communicate with departmental personnel, citizens and council is essential.

Qualifications:

Have extensive and progressive senior management experience with an advance comprehension of finance and budgeting with a minimum of 5 years in a municipal government setting or equivalent environment;

Will possess excellent communication, organizational and inter-personal skills;

A history of success and ability to manage a team environment;

Degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, or other relevant University Degree or a combination of suitable education and experience. A Certificate in Local Government Administration would be an asset.

For confidential inquiries, please contact Susan Higdon at [email protected].

Interested candidates can forward their resume on or before May 20, 2025. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

The Town of Stellarton offers a competitive salary with pension and benefits.

Stellarton is a thriving community that is safe, healthy, inclusive and engaged with a robust economy that appeals to businesses, citizens and visitors alike.

Please visit Stellarton.ca for a description of the Town and its amenities.