THE OPPORTUNITY
We have an exciting opportunity for a dynamic leader to join the Town of High Level as Director of Corporate Services. This is a newly created role reporting to the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) and provides strategic and operational oversight of the Town’s corporate, legislative, communications, IT, and enforcement services portfolios. The Director of Corporate Services plays a critical role in strengthening the Town’s governance framework and ensuring operational excellence in core corporate services. The Director will provide oversight of council agendas and minutes, bylaws, contracts and agreements, records management, municipal elections, privacy and access to information, corporate policy, community enforcement services, and liaison with the RCMP.
The Director will also lead the modernization of bylaws, policies and records systems addressing legacy challenges and establishing a solid foundation for effective, transparent governance. In addition, the role requires a collaborative leader who can support cultural renewal and guide organizational change in a growing and evolving municipality.
THE ORGANIZATION
The Town of High Level is a vibrant northern community of approximately 4,000 residents, serving as the regional service and trading centre for a surrounding population of more than 30,000 people. Located in the northwest corner of Alberta, High Level is strategically positioned at the intersection of Highways 35 and 58, providing critical access to northern industries and communities.
High Level is recognized as a hub for healthcare, education, retail, construction, transportation, and resource development, offering a unique blend of professional challenge and community connection. Known for its breathtaking Northern Lights, endless summer days and access to pristine lakes, rivers and outdoor adventures, the Town is a gateway to exceptional northern living. Residents also enjoy a strong sense of community and rich Indigenous culture, with local festivals, rodeos, and family-oriented activities year round.
Vision
High Level, an inclusive and vibrant community, with a strong and resilient economy that offers an active and healthy lifestyle.
Mission
We foster a thriving community that enhances our quality of life through sustainable planning, economic prosperity, and inclusion.
For more information, please visit their website: www.highlevel.ca
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Plan, direct and coordinate the functions and workload within the department, ensuring schedules, procedures and performance standards are developed and met.
- Prepare, attend, and provide administrative support for Council, Committee and SMT meetings, including the preparation of agendas and minutes, and the maintenance of bylaws, policies, resolutions, and official records in compliance with legislative requirements.
- Provide leadership and oversight of Communications, Information Technology, Community Enforcement Services, and plays a significant role in Emergency Management.
- Serve as liaison with the RCMP to strengthen collaboration and community safety initiatives.
- Administer municipal elections and other voting processes, serving as Returning Officer in accordance with the Local Authorities Election Act and all applicable legislation.
- Responsible for developing and overseeing the Town’s Privacy Management Program, corporate records, and compliance with applicable legislation.
- Oversee and mentor Corporate Services staff (IT, legislative, enforcement services, communications and contract), with responsibility for recruitment, training, performance management, and staff development, while fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive workplace.
- Provide collaborative leadership across the organization, fostering culture renewal and cross-departmental initiatives.
- Serve as Deputy Director of Emergency Management, supporting and following the direction of the Director of Emergency Management during emergencies.
- Perform other duties as assigned by the Chief Administrative Officer.
QUALIFICATIONS
- A minimum of 5 years’ experience at a senior level in the Legislative Services field of a Municipality or Government organization.
- Thorough knowledge of parliamentary procedure, municipal governance processes, and applicable legislation, including the Municipal Government Act (MGA), the Local Authorities Election Act (LAEA), and related regulations, policies, and procedures.
- Demonstrated experience leading organizational improvements, policy updates, or modernization initiatives.
- Experience in asset management planning or other corporate project management initiatives would be considered an asset.
- Proficiency with software relevant to municipal operations; experience with ICompass Digital Agenda & Minutes Software and PSD Citywide is an asset.
KEY COMPETENCIES
- Demonstrated leadership and supervisory skills, with the ability to foster teamwork, trust, accountability, and cultural renewal.
- Strong decision-making, problem-solving, and analytical abilities, exercising sound judgment under pressure and in complex situations.
- Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills, with the ability to communicate clearly and effectively to Council, staff, and the public.
- Skilled in building collaborative relationships with Indigenous partners, community stakeholders, regional/provincial agencies, and intermunicipal organizations.
- High level of professionalism, discretion, and integrity in managing confidential and sensitive matters.
- Commitment to modernizing systems, processes, and governance to enhance organizational transparency, efficiency, and service delivery.
- Political and cultural acumen, with sensitivity to northern, rural, and intercultural contexts.
- Expertise in IT, communications, and emergency management.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT
SANDY JACOBSON | T: 780.944.1327| E: [email protected] | www.richardsonsearch.ca
