Job Title

This range is provided by Region of Waterloo. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience talk with your recruiter to learn more. Base pay range CA$264,403.78/yr - CA$352,538.37/yr About the Region of Waterloo The Region of Waterloo is one of Canadas most innovative communities, where creativity, collaboration, and compassion drive progress. Home to 650,000 residents, it boasts a diverse economy rooted in technology, advanced manufacturing, education, agriculture, and health sciences. With both vibrant urban centers and rich rural communities, the Region offers opportunities for all. A thriving start-up ecosystem and commitment to sustainability and inclusion make it a hub for ideas shaping Canadas future. Guided by the 20232027 Strategic Plan, Growing with Care, were focused on sustainable, fair, and inclusive growth. About the Role The Region of Waterloo is seeking an inspiring and strategic Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) to lead its public service at a pivotal moment in the Regions evolution. Reporting directly to Regional Council, the CAO provides visionary leadership and direction to the Corporate Leadership Team, ensuring that high-quality, cost-effective services meet the needs of residents and reflect Councils strategic priorities and the pillars of the Regions Strategic Plan. As the Regions most senior administrative leader, the CAO will bring the Growing with Care vision to life, translating Councils goals into meaningful action that advances the four priorities of the Strategic Plan: Homes for All, Equitable Services and Opportunities, ClimateAligned Growth, and a Resilient and FutureReady Organization. A critical component of this role is fostering economic development to support sustainable growth and prosperity across the Region. The CAO will champion strategies that attract generational investment, advance economic prosperity, and support the development of critical infrastructure, while delivering on longterm planning objectives as set by Council. The Region of Waterloo is searching for a collaborative and forwardthinking leader who is passionate about public service, committed to meaningful community outcomes, and eager to guide one of Canadas most dynamic regions into its next chapter. Key Responsibilities Strategic Leadership Provide strategic direction to the Corporate Leadership Team, ensuring alignment with the Growing with Care vision and priorities. Work closely with the Regional Chair and Council to shape and implement policies that advance longterm goals. Offer objective, evidencebased advice that integrates social, environmental, and economic perspectives. Operational Oversight Oversee approximately 4,000 fulland parttime employees delivering essential services across the Region. Foster an innovative, highperforming, and psychologically safe workplace that attracts, develops, and retains top talent. Represent the Region with professionalism and integrity, maintaining open and trusted communication with residents, media, and partners. Advancing Strategic Priorities Homes for All: champion partnerships and policies to expand affordable housing, eliminate chronic homelessness, and unlock Regionowned land for inclusive communities. Equitable Services and Opportunities: ensure services are accessible, culturally safe, inclusive, and codesigned with the community. ClimateAligned Growth: promote growth that protects the environment, reduces emissions, and expands active and public transportation. Resilient and FutureReady Organization: build a peoplecentred culture valuing diversity, inclusion, and reconciliation, while embracing innovation and fiscal responsibility. Partnerships and Collaboration Strengthen relationships with area municipalities, Indigenous communities, provincial and federal governments, postsecondary institutions, and community organizations. Qualifications University degree in public administration, management, or a related discipline; postgraduate education is an asset. Extensive senior leadership experience managing multidisciplinary teams in complex organizations. Indepth knowledge of municipal governance, legislation, and public administration principles. Demonstrated success in strategic planning, financial management, and organizational leadership. *This position is hybrid; however, given the nature of the role, the successful candidate will be required to be on site a minimum of three days per week, and potentially more depending on operational needs and emerging priorities. To apply for this key role, submit your application to Phelps by clicking: https://rebrand.ly/bismo6u Application deadline: Monday, January 5, 2026 To learn more information, visit the Phelps Group website at https://phelpsgroup.ca/ Seniority level Seniority level Executive Employment type Employment type Full-time Job function Job function Management Industries Government Administration #J-18808-Ljbffr