The Bonnyville Regional Fire Authority is seeking a visionary Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) of Emergency Services to provide strategic leadership across the region's Municipal Fire Protection, 911/Dispatch Services, and Emergency Medical Services. This critical executive role will oversee the entire emergency services division, ensuring the Authority's preparedness to meet the diverse and evolving needs of the community and its partners.

The ideal candidate will possess extensive proven Executive Level experience in municipal emergency services. This permanent full-time position offers the opportunity to lead a dynamic team, influence critical decision-making, and guide the future of emergency services in the Bonnyville region.

In addition to a competitive salary, the position includes a comprehensive benefits package and participation in the LAPP Pension Plan. The successful candidate will also have the chance to reside in the Bonnyville area, a region known for its exceptional quality of life.

Core Duties:

• Provide strategic oversight and direction for operational functions and leadership for Municipal Fire Protection, Industrial Fire Protection (Contract Services), 911/Dispatch Services, Emergency Medical Services, and Major Emergency Planning.
• Lead a diverse team, fostering a culture of high morale and commitment among both employees and volunteers, ensuring the effective implementation of Board policies and achieving operational objectives within budgetary constraints.
• Manage and negotiate labour agreements, industrial, and intergovernmental contracts, ensuring the Authority's interests are effectively represented and protected.
• Lead financial management and capital planning strategies, ensuring long-term sustainability and alignment with the Authority's strategic goals. This includes budget preparation and presentation to the Board, ensuring the efficient use of resources and safeguarding the Authority's assets.
• Champion a culture of continuous improvement and innovation, encouraging the development of new, effective approaches to fulfilling the Authority's mandate and achieving operational excellence.
• Ensure staff and volunteers are committed to providing a high level of public service and, through a team approach, ensure the effective functioning of all operations, implementation of Board policies, achievement of objectives, and operation of programs within approved funding limits.
• Provide expert guidance to the Board in policy development and strategic decision-making.
• Review recommendations and ensure an effective organizational structure for staff that reflects operational needs and planned objectives.
• Integrate objectives emerging from the political process, social and economic trends, knowledge of the service area, advice from staff, and positions advocated by interest groups and the general public.
• Oversee Human Resources, including union and non-union staffing models.
• Oversee and provide executive leadership during emergency responses, which may include responding to or establishing command of fire and other emergencies as outlined in the Standard Operating Guidelines (SOG).
• Maintain knowledge of current strategic and tactical methods of emergency response.
• Drive fire prevention and emergency preparedness initiatives while overseeing inspections, investigations, and public education programs as needed.
• Lead the accreditation process through Accreditation Canada.

Education and Experience:

• Proven Executive Level experience in municipal emergency services.
• Extensive Emergency Response experience demonstrating a strong record of leadership and operational management.
• A degree in Emergency Services or a related field, supplemented by a diploma or certificate in Local Government Administration or equivalent experience.
• Strong financial acumen and experience with collective bargaining.
• Current expertise in emergency communication centers and PSAP operations.
• A strong work ethic and the flexibility to work outside regular hours as needed.

Certifications, Licenses, and/or Designations:

• Valid First Aid and CPR Level C
• Incident Command System 300/400
• Class 5 Driver's License with Q endorsement

Application Deadline October 1, 2024

Recruitment Supported By Lakeland HR. Thank you to all applicants; however, only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.