Chief Of Staff To The Mayor

Chief of Staff to the Mayor

Posting: Id 2242

Department: Council

Division: Council Administration

Section: Mayor

Job Grade: Contract Admin Grade 07

Rate of Pay: $112,290.00 - $130,249.00 Annual

Job Type: Temporary Full Time - Contract

Contract Length/End Date:12 months

Replacement/New Position: Replacement

Posting Type: Internal and External

Posting Date: 07/28/2023

Application Deadline: 08/11/2023

Position Summary

The Chief of Staff to the Mayor is a key executive position responsible for providing strategic support and coordination to the Mayor's office. The incumbent will act as the principal aide, confidante, and coordinator, working closely with the Mayor to implement their vision, manage projects, and ensure the efficient functioning of the office. The Chief of Staff will collaborate with various departments, stakeholders, and community leaders to advance the Mayor's priorities and foster effective governance in the city.

This Chief of Staff position is critical to the Mayor's success in leading the city effectively. The ideal candidate will be a proactive, highly organized, and politically astute individual with a passion for public service and the drive to make a positive impact on the community.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Office Management:

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the Mayor's office and manage administrative staff to ensure efficient workflow.

• Establish and maintain effective communication channels within the office and with other city departments

Project Management:

• Coordinate and monitor progress on key projects and initiatives driven by the Mayor's office.

• Collaborate with department heads and stakeholders to ensure timely implementation of projects

Liaison and Community Relations:

• Serve as a liaison between the Mayor and City officials, community leaders, and other stakeholders.

• Represent the Mayor at meetings, events, and functions when required.

Budget Oversight:

• Assist in developing and managing the Mayor's office budget, ensuring responsible allocation of resources.

Communications and Media Relations:

• Work closely with the communications team to develop and implement effective communication strategies.

• Handle sensitive or critical matters and media inquiries on behalf of the Mayor.

Policy Analysis and Legislation:

• Review proposed legislation and policy initiatives to advise the Mayor on potential impacts and implications.

• Collaborate with city Council Members and other government officials to promote policy objectives.

Crisis Management:

• Provide guidance and support to the Mayor during times of crisis or emergencies.

Oversee staff

• Oversee up to 4 direct reports

• Assist with the recruitment, performance reviews, and training of administrative staff

• Prepare and lead regular section meetings to update staff on new policies, initiatives, and priorities

• Define, direct and monitor scope of duties for staff

Required Skills/Knowledge

Political Acumen:

• Strong understanding of local government operations, policies, and political dynamics

• Understanding and monitoring of all three levels of government operations, policies, and political dynamics.

Communication Skills:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to effectively convey complex information to diverse audiences.

Strategic Thinking:

• Proven ability to think strategically and provide innovative solutions to challenges.

Leadership and Team Management:

• Experience in managing teams and fostering a collaborative work environment.

Integrity:

• High ethical standards and the ability to maintain confidentiality and discretion.

Problem-Solving Skills:

• Demonstrated capacity to analyze problems, make decisions, and take appropriate actions.

Flexibility:

• Adaptability to work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment with changing priorities.

Commitment to the Community:

• Genuine interest in improving the City of Richmond Hill and serving its residents.

Education and Experience

• Masters in Political Science, Public Policy or Business Administration is an asset
• Undergraduate Degree in Political Science or related field.
• 5 - 7 years of experience as a senior staff member within a municipal, provincial or federal government environment.

Leadership Competencies

• Shapes the future
• Cultivates open communication
• Builds people and culture
• Navigates and leads through complexity and change
• Demonstrates personal leadership

Attention Internal Candidates: All current City of Richmond Hill employees are required to apply via the ‘View Jobs for Current Employees’ link on the City’s Careers Page.