Chief of Staff

THE OPPORTUNITY The Town of High Level is seeking a strategic and government savvy leader to serve as Chief of Staff. Reporting directly to the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) and partnering closely with the Senior Leadership Team and acting as the CAO’s senior advisor.This leader will have an HR background and blend executive advisory work with people strategy and organizational leadership and will bridge political leadership, administration, and the workforce.The Chief of Staff will be responsible for the Strategic Planning, Reporting and Updating and have two (2) direct reports which will include the Health & Safety Coordinator and the Payroll and Benefits Clerk. The successful candidate will bring strong emotional intelligence, experience navigating complex stakeholder environments, and a systems view of how structure, culture, and leadership interact. 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 - Provide strategic advice and coordination support to the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) and senior leadership team on governance matters, stakeholder relations, and emerging municipal issues. - Coordinate and support advancement of Council’s strategic priorities in collaboration with the CAO and Senior Leadership Team, including monitoring progress and supporting implementation of the Town’s strategic plan, and coordinating organizational reporting on strategic initiatives. - Support intergovernmental and regional engagement with provincial and federal partners, particularly related to infrastructure funding, economic development, and northern priorities. - Strengthen relationships with regional municipalities, Indigenous communities, business leaders, and community stakeholders in support of the Town’s strategic objectives. - Assist with the preparation of briefing materials, correspondence, and reports for Council meetings, senior leadership discussions, and external engagements. - Monitor and coordinate key initiatives and emerging issues affecting the Town and region, ensuring alignment with Council direction and administrative priorities. - Provide strategic guidance to the CAO and Senior Leadership Team on community engagement, corporate communications, and reputational considerations affecting the Town, working collaboratively with the Director of Corporate Services. - Represent the Town or support the CAO at regional meetings, events, or stakeholder forums as required. - Provide leadership for the Town’s human resources function, including workforce planning, recruitment support, employee relations, policy development, performance management and organizational development. - Support the development of consistent organizational processes including performance management, supervisory coaching, workforce planning, and employee relations practices across the administration. - Oversee corporate support functions including Health and Safety coordination and payroll and benefits administration while coordinating cross-departmental collaboration related to strategic planning reporting and organizational initiatives. - Ensure adherence to applicable legislation including the Municipal Government Act (MGA), FOIP, occupational health and safety requirements, and municipal policies. - Promote a collaborative and professional organizational culture that supports accountability, transparency, and effective service delivery. QUALIFICATIONS - Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related discipline. A Master’s degree is considered an asset. - Professional HR designation (CHRP) or equivalent is an asset. - Proven experience in senior leadership, executive advisory, or Chief of Staff roles, preferably in municipal or public sector organizations. - Demonstrated experience in human resources leadership, including workforce planning, organizational design, and talent management. - Track record of navigating complex stakeholder environments and supporting elected officials or boards. - Strong understanding of Alberta’s Municipal Government Act (MGA) and municipal governance structures. - Strong written and verbal communication skills, including preparation of briefing materials and corporate reports. - Ability to manage competing priorities in a dynamic and public-facing environment. - High level of integrity, discretion, and professional judgment. - Ability to obtain a satisfactory Criminal Record Check (CRC). KEY COMPETENCIES - Demonstrates a strong understanding of the Council and CAO governance model and exercises sound judgment in politically sensitive matters. - Strong strategic thinking and political acumen, with the ability to translate priorities into actionable plans. - High emotional intelligence, including conflict resolution, negotiation, and relationship-building skills. - Exceptional organizational, project management, and problem-solving abilities. - Systems-level understanding of how structure, culture, and leadership interact to drive organizational effectiveness. - Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including briefing and presentation preparation. - Builds trust with Council, administration, Indigenous partners, regional stakeholders, and senior government representatives. - Supports effective execution of Council priorities through strong organization, communication, and follow-through. - Supports funding applications, infrastructure advocacy, and regional initiatives that advance High Level’s long-term sustainability. - Communicates clearly and diplomatically, representing the administration and the Town with credibility. - Maintain confidentiality and demonstrate professionalism in a high-visibility public role. FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT SANDY JACOBSON | T: 780.944.1327| E: sandy.jacobson@richardsonsearch.ca | www.richardsonsearch.ca