Director of Community Services

As a key member of the senior leadership team, the Director of Community Services collaborates with the Chief Administrative Officer and other Directors and staff to move strategic priorities adopted by Council forward while safeguarding the assets of the Municipal District through Accurate, Effective and Efficient service provision through current and innovative Bylaws, Policies, Practices, and processes.

The Director of Community Services provides strategic leadership, operational oversight, and program management for a diverse portfolio of municipal services, including Community Grants, Planning & Development, Protective Services, Cemeteries, Custodial and Janitorial Services, and Municipal Libraries. This position ensures that community programs, public spaces, and essential services are delivered efficiently, sustainably, and in alignment with Council priorities and legislative requirements. The Director fosters strong community relationships, leads cross-departmental initiatives, and supports long-term planning to enhance the wellbeing of residents.

Specific Accountabilities

- Provides effective leadership and mentorship to the assigned departmental staff, ensuring that service and aligned financial deliverables are accurately completed on time by confident and capable staff, following set municipal procedures.
- Systematically reviews departmental policies, by-laws, business practices, strategies, and administrative guidelines so they remain current, relevant, and in compliance with applicable legislation and practice and makes recommendations for continuous improvement to the CAO and Senior Leadership Team.
- Responsible for timely and accurate assigned departmental financial, statistical and grant reporting to external agencies such as the CRA, GOA (Municipal Affairs, Emergency Management Agency), other granting agencies and parties to agreements when required.
- Carries out other special projects and/or duties assigned.

Community Services

- Oversees FCSS Program, Community Assistance Program, and other associated community funding initiatives.
- Community liaison for rural libraries, senior, recreational, social, cultural, educational and athletic opportunities, initiatives and programming throughout the municipality.
- Oversees Community complex, arena rentals, facility booking and related program(s).
- Responsible for inter-municipal agreements (VIC, Recreation, Legacy Centre).
- Responsible for encouraging and overseeing MOUs with Community Groups.
- Develop and implement strategic plans for the enhancement and expansion of parks, recreational facilities, and programming to meet the evolving needs of the community.
- Lead the design and implementation of recreational programs and events for residents of all ages and interests.
- Manage departmental budgets, allocate resources effectively, and seek alternate funding sources.
- Foster positive relationships with community stakeholders, local organizations, and government agencies.
- Ensure compliance with relevant local, provincial, and federal regulations pertaining to parks and recreation, including safety standards, and environmental regulations.

Grants & Funding

- Oversee municipal grant programs, including intake, evaluation, reporting, and distribution processes.
- Identify and pursue external funding opportunities from provincial, federal, and private sources.
- Ensure compliance with grant agreements, reporting requirements, and financial accountability standards.

Planning & Development

- Provide leadership in long-term community planning, land use management, and development review processes.
- Ensure compliance with municipal bylaws, statutory plans, and provincial legislation.
- Lead the Planning and Development Department
- Review Planning and Development permits and applications alongside the Planning and Development Officer.

Protective Services

- Oversee municipal protective services such as bylaw enforcement, and public safety programs.
- Develop policies and procedures that enhance community safety and regulatory compliance.

Cemeteries

- Cemeteries annual grant application.

Custodial & Janitorial Services

- Oversee Janitorial staff & cleaning schedules in the absence of Administrative Assistant.

Libraries

- Provide strategic oversight for municipal libraries, ensuring alignment with community needs and Council direction.
- Support library boards and staff with budgeting, programming, policy development, and long-term planning.
- Encourage literacy, learning opportunities, and accessible public resources.

Education & Certifications

- Post-secondary education in Planning & Development – Required
- Municipal Governance Certificate or training – Required
- Advanced level leadership development training – Asset
- Valid Alberta Class 5 Driver’s License – Required
- ICS 100, 200, and 300 – Asset

Abilities & Experience

- Minimum 5 years experience in a senior leadership role – Required
- Experience leading in an organization that is run by a board of directors or body of elected officials – Asset
- Proficiency with computers and Microsoft Office programs, with the ability to independently create and edit a variety of documents and spreadsheets – Required
- Experience working with the Alberta Municipal Government Act (MGA), environmental legislation and other related legislation – Required
- Superior social, communication, and relationship management skills – Required
- Ability to work well under pressure, individually and as part of a team – Required

Salary Range: Starting at $ 138,882 per annum, dependent on qualifications and experience

Please submit your application to recruitment@mdlsr.ca referencing Competition No. DCS-2026 in the subject line. This competition will remain open until a suitable candidates are hired.

We thank all applicants in advance for their interest in this position; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

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