Chief Administrative Officer

**Chief Administrative Officer**:
**Job Type**
Executive Opportunities

**Organization**
Smoky Lake County

**Closing date**
**Nov 4, 2025**

Hiring**:Chief Administrative Officer (CAO)**

Smoky Lake County, Alberta

Smoky Lake County is seeking a community-focused leader to serve as Chief Administrative Officer (CAO). This is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact in a rural municipality with deep agricultural ties and growth aspirations.
Located approximately 120 km northeast of Edmonton, Smoky Lake County offers the balance of rural life with convenient access to urban amenities. The County features diverse industry sectors; including thriving agriculture, oil and gas, forestry, aggregate, and tourism. Their focus is a commitment to public service, ensuring access to healthcare and emergency services, fostering education, encouraging cultural diversity, enhancing recreation, and promoting housing diversity.

**Key Responsibilities**:

- Provide overall leadership and administrative management for Smoky Lake County in alignment with the council’s strategic direction.
- Serve as a trusted advisor to Council, offering fact-based advice, transparency, research, and support for policy development and decision-making.
- Oversee departmental operations, including public works, finance, planning and development, agricultural services, community services, and administration.
- Ensure sound financial stewardship, including preparation and management of the County’s operating and capital budgets.
- Promote effective communication and collaboration between council, staff, community stakeholders, residents, community organizations, and other levels of government.
- Maintain compliance with all applicable legislation, including the Municipal Government Act (MGA) and other relevant provincial regulations.
- Champion organizational development, employee engagement, and service delivery improvements.
- Lead and support strategic planning, economic development initiatives, and county sustainability projects.
- Lead community engagement, ensuring transparency, accessibility, and strong two-way communication.

**Qualifications**:

- A minimum of 5-10 years of progressive senior management experience, preferably within a rural municipal setting.
- Post-secondary credentials in public administration, business, finance, or related fields are an asset, but not required.
- Completion of Local Authority Administration (LGA) Level I and II and an active Certified Local Government Managers (CLGM) designation (or willingness to obtain).
- Strong business mindset with the ability to manage finances, operations, and strategic priorities effectively.
- Comprehensive knowledge of the Alberta Municipal Government Act (MGA) and related legislation.
- Highly effective communicator, proven ability to positively engage with council, staff, and residents.
- A commitment to fostering a positive workplace culture and continuous improvement.
- Adaptive leadership style, collaborative, yet decisive when needed.
- Must reside within Smoky Lake County or have a genuine willingness to relocate and make meaningful roots in the community.
- Personal integrity, openness, and a long-term commitment mindset.

**Why Smoky Lake County?**
Smoky Lake County is proud of its heritage, scenic beauty, and high quality of life. From the Iron Horse Trail to local lakes, festivals, and historic sites, residents enjoy year-round recreation and a strong sense of community. With affordable living, safe communities, and proximity to urban centres, Smoky Lake County is an ideal place for leaders seeking both professional challenge and personal fulfillment.

This is your opportunity to lead a dynamic municipality and contribute to its long-term success while living in a region known for its natural charm and welcoming spirit.

**What Smoky Lake Offers**:

- A leadership role where your influence is tangible, and your commitment valued
- A dedicated and experienced municipal team behind you
- Proximity to Edmonton paired with a strong rural lifestyle
- A chance to lead an organization deeply tied to its county’s values and future

**Application Deadline: November 4, 2025**

Hiring Supported by Lakeland HR Solutions

**Application Return**

Education : Other trades certificate or diploma
Experience : 5 years or more