The Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) will provide strategic, operational, and administrative leadership for the Municipality of Kincardine. The CAO will oversee all municipal departments, implement Council’s directions (as delegated), and ensure efficient, accountable, and transparent municipal operations. The CAO will serve as a key advisor to Council and the Mayor, support strategic initiatives, and lead continuous improvement, risk management, and organizational development.
Reporting To: Mayor and Council of the Municipality of Kincardine in accordance with the Municipality of Kincardine’s Strong Mayor Powers Framework.
Supervises: Director of Corporate Services, Director of Community Services, Director of Infrastructure and Development, Manager of Strategic Initiatives, Fire Chief, Nuclear Project Coordinator, Executive Assistant – CAO.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership and Organizational Oversight:
• 96 full-time and 91 part-time staff, 54 volunteer fire personnel
• Translate strategic direction into actionable corporate plans and monitor progress.
• Foster a high-performance organizational culture grounded in service excellence, accountability, DEI, and modern workplace practices.
Corporate Administration and Change Management:
• Oversee all municipal departments, programs, and operations, ensuring alignment with Council/Mayor direction.
• Recommend organizational structure adjustments to improve efficiency and service delivery.
• Manage consultants, external providers, and ensure compliance with procurement standards.
Financial Stewardship and Budget Support:
• Annual budget of over $68 million.
• Support preparation and delivery of municipal budgets (operating and capital).
• Ensure financial accountability, transparency, and compliance with legislative requirements.
• Identify efficiencies and cost-saving opportunities across municipal operations.
Human Resources, Labour Relations and Workplace Culture:
• Oversee staffing, recruitment, retention, and performance management.
• Promote a high-performing and engaged workplace culture.
• Manage labour relations, collective bargaining, and workplace health and safety.
Risk Management, Legal and Regulatory Compliance:
• Lead corporate risk management systems and mitigation strategies.
• Oversee legal matters, compliance, insurance, and regulatory adherence.
• Ensure robust records management, IT and cybersecurity oversight.
Emergency Management, Public Safety and Resilience:
• Ensure compliance with emergency management legislation, including the Provincial Nuclear Emergency Response Plan.
• Serve as or support the CEMC and lead EOC activations when required.
• Develop business continuity strategies.
Communications, Public and Stakeholder Engagement:
• Oversee municipal communications, media relations, and public engagement.
• Act as senior liaison to other governments, industry partners, Indigenous communities, and interested parties.
• Support economic development and community partnerships.
Governance Support and Council/Mayor Relations:
• Provide professional, evidence-based governance advice to Council and the Mayor.
• Ensure efficient implementation of municipal decisions.
• Support statutory obligations, including public accountability and compliance frameworks.
Performance Measurement, Service Excellence and Continuous Improvement:
• Develop KPIs, benchmarks, and service standards.
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives and organizational learning.
• Support audit processes and transparency in performance reporting.
Other Duties:
• Perform additional responsibilities assigned by Council or the Mayor, including intergovernmental initiatives and special projects.
Education and Experience Requirements:
• Post-secondary education in Public Administration, Business Administration, Public Policy, Planning, Engineering or a related discipline
• Professional credentials such as Certified Municipal Officer (CMO), Accredited Municipal Professional (AMP) or ICMA is considered an asset
• 10 years of progressive leadership experience in municipal or broader public sector environments.
• 5 years of relevant experience in a Municipal, Government or Not-for-profit environment.
Required Knowledge, Skills and Competencies:
• Demonstrated experience with strategic planning, organizational leadership, financial stewardship, and intergovernmental relations.
• Deep understanding of municipal governance, public accountability, and regulatory compliance
• A strong working knowledge of municipal finances with solid financial acumen and risk management skills
• Superior communication, negotiation, and public engagement capabilities
• Leadership, strategic thinking, and change management ability
• Ability to manage competing priorities in a complex environment with high integrity
• Ability to effectively lead, coach and motivate a multi-disciplinary team
• Strong political acumen and respect for the partnership between administration and Council
Employment Information:
• Regular, full-time position, minimum 4 days per week in the office
• Compensation is in consideration of the performance of duties and will involve irregular and extended hours
• A criminal record check with an acceptable result is a condition of employment
Accessible Accommodations
The Municipality of Kincardine is an equal opportunity employer committed to inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and selection processes and work environments in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). If you require an accessibility accommodation throughout any stage of the recruitment process, please contact us.
Other Notes
This job posting is for an existing position with the Municipality of Kincardine. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is not used to screen candidates.
How To Apply
To express interest in this exciting opportunity, by January 30, 2026, please email your cover letter and resume to:
Patrick Rowan, Partner, Feldman Daxon Partners
45 St. Clair Avenue West, Suite 700, Toronto, Ontario M4V 1K9
Tel.: 416-515-3302; Email: prowan@feldmandaxon.com