Chief Administrative Officer

Chief Administrative Officer & Corporate Officer

Village of Sayward

The Municipality

The Village of Sayward is a picturesque coastal community situated on the northeast coast of Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. As of the 2021 Census, Sayward has a population of 334 residents, reflecting a 7.4% increase since 2016. The village is located approximately 336 kilometers north of Victoria and 75 kilometers from Campbell River accessible via Highway 19 and Sayward Road.

The Village is at the base of the Newcastle Ridge and mouth of the Salmon River. Sayward’s history is deeply rooted in the region’s natural resources and as a traditional meeting place for many First Nations with territorial claims from K’omoks First Nations, We Wai Kai First Nations, and Wei Wai Kum First Nations. In the late 19th century, logging emerged as a key industry in the community. In fact, the Village’s footprint was essentially constructed by industry and although the logging industry’s presence has diminished significantly over time, it remains an important part of the Village’s economy. The village was officially named in 1911 after William Parsons Sayward, a prominent lumber merchant who, despite never visiting the area, was honored for his contributions to the lumber industry.

Historically Sayward has been reliant on the forestry sector which has subsided over the years. The municipality seeks to invest and attract outdoor recreation and tourism initiatives to help diversify economic growth. The village offers access to services and amenities including a healthcare clinic, kindergarten, elementary and primary schools, secondary medical and pharmaceutical services, two fire halls including emergency medical assistance, an RCMP detachment, assisted and supportive living care and housing, shopping, community organizations, and a range of local amenities such as Kelsey Recreation Centre featuring facilities such as a swimming pool, gymnasium, and multipurpose rooms. The community offers Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the scenic waterfront trail, observe marine traffic in Johnstone Strait, and engage in wildlife viewing opportunities, including sightings of orcas, sea lions, and various bird species.

The village is legislated under the British Columbia Local Government Act and is governed by a Council comprised of four (4) elected Councilors and one (1) elected Mayor.

“We shall promote improvement and development of a strong and vibrant community for our residents”

Core Values:

• We are accountable to our constituents and to the Village of Sayward
• We work as a committed team in the spirit of collaboration and community
• We are caring and respectful in all our interactions and relationships
• We are open and honest. We adhere to the highest standards of ethical conduct
• We deliver effective public service through professionalism and creativity

Vision Goals:

• Provide the best healthcare and social services for our community
• Promote Sayward as a tourist destination
• Affordable quality services are delivered in a fiscally responsible way
• The Village is a leader in local governance, with diverse jurisdictions, including First Nations, working together cohesively and collaboratively
• Work in cooperation with the Area A director, SRD and other government agencies

The Opportunity

Appointed by Council and reporting to Council under the authority of the Community Charter, the Chief Administrative Officer and Corporate Officer (“CAO”), is the most senior executive, principal advisor to Council and responsible for enacting Council’s vision and direction.

In addition, the CAO is accountable for the overall leadership, planning, reporting, budgeting, management, and administration of municipal operations as guided by the objectives, plans and policies approved by Council and in accordance with the Local Government Act (“LGA”).

It is preferred that the Chief Administrative Officer will reside within the municipality or immediate area and therefore be willing to relocate if required.

Direct Reports:

• Manager Recreation, Events & Culture
• Economic Development Coordinator
• Manager Public Works
• Human Resource Services
• (Contractors and Consultants)

The Ideal Candidate

The CAO leads the management team, provides sound financial and organizational oversight, and acts as the primary liaison between Council, staff, other levels of government, and the public. The role requires a strong commitment to good governance, community service, transparency, and strategic leadership.

In addition to the duties of the Chief Administrative Officer, the incumbent will also serve as the Corporate Officer. The Corporate Officer is a statutory officer appointe