Chief Administrative Officer

The City of Powell River is searching for a skilled Chief Administrative Officer to join our dedicated team.
(Salary Range: $200,000 - $220,000 per annum)

About the Role

As Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), you will be Council’s one employee and the operational leader for the City of Powell River, responsible for fostering strong, effective relationships with employees, elected officials, community stakeholders, and the public. You will build and maintain key partnerships, particularly with the Tla’amin Nation, the qathet Regional District and other regional collaborators, while providing advice to ensure Council operates effectively, transparently, and in alignment with its priorities. Overseeing City projects, programs, and services, you will ensure they are well-executed and support Council’s strategic priorities. Additionally, you will develop and implement initiatives that enhance community development, local governance, and municipal operations.

What You Bring

We are looking for an effective leader with:

✔️ Outstanding leadership experience—whether in municipal government, public service, or a comparable sector.
✔️ A track record of building and leading high-performing teams, fostering collaboration, and implementing sound communication practices.
✔️ Expertise in governance, municipal finance, and policy implementation, including knowledge of the Local Government Act and Community Charter.
✔️ Strategic thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to develop and execute plans that benefit the community.
✔️ The ability to motivate, mentor, and manage a diverse team, including recruitment, talent retention, performance evaluation, and professional development.
✔️ Political acumen and the ability to navigate complex municipal challenges including managing risk, change and competing priorities with confidence and integrity.

Why Powell River?

Located in the Traditional Territories of the Tla’amin Nation, Powell River offers an unparalleled coastal lifestyle where natural beauty meets vibrant community spirit:

🏥 Top-Tier Services – Enjoy high-quality education, health care, and infrastructure in a safe, welcoming environment.
🏔️ Spectacular Setting – With the coastal mountains in its backyard and the ocean on its doorstep, Powell River is a dream for outdoor enthusiasts and just a half-hour flight from YVR and Coal Harbour.
🎭 Arts & Culture – A thriving arts scene, world-class music, heritage sites, a diverse range of cultural and culinary experiences and festivals that bring the community together.
🚴‍♂️ Recreation & Adventure – From hiking and kayaking to mountain biking and fishing, outdoor recreation opportunities are endless.
🏡 Unmatched Quality of Life – A close-knit, community-driven city that offers the best of British Columbia and Canada; diverse range of cultural and culinary experiences.

Who Should Apply?

Whether you’re an experienced CAO ready for your next challenge or a senior municipal leader eager to take the next step, this is an exciting opportunity to lead a community-focused municipality, work in a role that truly makes a difference, and enjoy competitive compensation along with an unbeatable lifestyle.

Please respond with a résumé and cover letter by May 2, 2025 to:

Dennis Back, Denhart Management Inc.
email: dennis.back@shaw.ca
604-306-5023