Chief Administrative Officer

This range is provided by Region of Waterloo. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

Base pay range

CA$264,403.78 / yr - CA$352,538.37 / yr

About the Region of Waterloo

The Region of Waterloo is one of Canada’s most innovative communities, where creativity, collaboration, and compassion drive progress. Home to 650,000 residents, it boasts a diverse economy rooted in technology, advanced manufacturing, education, agriculture, and health sciences. With both vibrant urban centers and rich rural communities, the Region offers opportunities for all. A thriving start-up ecosystem and commitment to sustainability and inclusion make it a hub for ideas shaping Canada’s future. Guided by the 2023–2027 Strategic Plan, Growing with Care, we’re focused on sustainable, fair, and inclusive growth.

About the Role

The Region of Waterloo is seeking an inspiring and strategic Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) to lead its public service at a pivotal moment in the Region’s evolution. Reporting directly to Regional Council, the CAO provides visionary leadership and direction to the Corporate Leadership Team, ensuring that high-quality, cost-effective services meet the needs of residents and reflect Council’s strategic priorities and the pillars of the Region’s Strategic Plan. As the Region’s most senior administrative leader, the CAO will bring the Growing with Care vision to life, translating Council’s goals into meaningful action that advances the four priorities of the Strategic Plan : Homes for All, Equitable Services and Opportunities, Climate‑Aligned Growth, and a Resilient and Future‑Ready Organization. A critical component of this role is fostering economic development to support sustainable growth and prosperity across the Region. The CAO will champion strategies that attract generational investment, advance economic prosperity, and support the development of critical infrastructure, while delivering on long‑term planning objectives as set by Council. The Region of Waterloo is searching for a collaborative and forward‑thinking leader who is passionate about public service, committed to meaningful community outcomes, and eager to guide one of Canada’s most dynamic regions into its next chapter.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Provide strategic direction to the Corporate Leadership Team, ensuring alignment with the Growing with Care vision and priorities.
• Work closely with the Regional Chair and Council to shape and implement policies that advance long‑term goals.
• Offer objective, evidence‑based advice that integrates social, environmental, and economic perspectives.

Operational Oversight

Advancing Strategic Priorities

Partnerships and Collaboration

Qualifications

To apply for this key role, submit your application to Phelps by clicking : https : / / rebrand.ly / bismo6u

Application deadline : Monday, January 5, 2026

To learn more information, visit the Phelps Group website at https : / / phelpsgroup.ca /

Seniority level

Seniority level

Executive

Employment type

Employment type

Full-time

Job function

Job function

Management

Industries

Government Administration

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