Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Full Time

Closing Date: March 31, 2026

About the Eastern Regional Service Board (ERSB)
The Eastern Regional Service Board (ERSB), established in 2012 under the Regional Service Board Act, delivers essential municipal services that keep communities across the Eastern Region of Newfoundland and Labrador safe, sustainable, and well-served. ERSB is committed to ensuring that every household has access to critical services such as fire and emergency response, safe drinking water and wastewater programs, and effective waste management.

Learn more at: https://easternregionalserviceboard.com

Position Overview
ERSB is seeking a dynamic and experienced Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) to provide strategic leadership and oversee all organizational operations. Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, the CAO is responsible for financial management, human resources, operational oversight, and ensuring the successful implementation of Board policies and programs.

This is a unique opportunity to influence regional service delivery and contribute to improving the quality of life for residents across the Eastern Region.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the delivery of programs and services approved by the Board.
• Manage human, financial, and physical resources to meet community needs.
• Ensure compliance with relevant legislation, regulations, and Board policies.
• Provide timely, accurate, and strategic advice to the Board on regional matters.
• Maintain transparency, accountability, and excellence in service delivery.

Overall Role and Structure
The CAO provides overall leadership and strategic direction to support the ERSB’s mandate. This includes creating a strong organizational culture, establishing effective processes, and building mechanisms to evaluate outcomes. The CAO acts as a trusted advisor to the Board, promoting collaboration, innovation, and strong partnerships with internal and external stakeholders.

Specific Accountabilities

• Serve as chief advisor to the Board on all matters related to management and governance.
• Champion legislative and regional governance frameworks, shaping both short- and long-term approaches to programs and operations.
• Provide strategic guidance related to policy and legislative requirements, including provincial and national issues relevant to ERSB.
• Oversee business development, contract management, and strategic growth initiatives.
• Build trusted relationships and conduct senior-level representational, advocacy, and promotional activities.
• Ensure strong organizational performance in areas including operations, staffing, finance, communications, and facilities management.
• Lead talent initiatives, workforce development, and a positive, inclusive organizational culture.
• Participate in regional advisory capacity and support other regions on service delivery initiatives.

Qualifications and Education

• Master’s degree in business administration, economics, or a related field from an accredited institution, plus a minimum of five years of increasingly responsible experience.
• Equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered.
• 3–5 years of senior-level public sector experience, ideally in the municipal sector, including people leadership and experience with or reporting to a Board of Directors.
• Strong understanding of customer service, service delivery, and program evaluation.
• Working knowledge of Provincial and Federal regulations related to municipal government.

Competencies and Skills
Communication & Confidentiality

• Superior verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to communicate clearly, respectfully, and effectively in complex or ambiguous situations.
• Strong self-discipline and commitment to confidentiality.

Research & Analytical Skills

• Critical thinker with strong analytical and strategic problem-solving capabilities.
• Ability to assess risks and opportunities and provide sound, timely advice.

Organizational Skills

• Highly adaptable, with strong planning and organizational capabilities.
• Effective time management and ability to work under pressure while meeting multiple deadlines.

Interpersonal Skills

• Proven leadership and relationship-building abilities.
• Strong team-builder, mentor, and developer of talent.
• Skilled at negotiating and working with diverse groups, including elected officials and the public.

Culture & Values

• Commitment to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and supportive work environment.
• Alignment with ERSB’s values of respect, fairness, compassion, and professional development.
• ERSB maintains a Respectful Workplace Policy.

Core Competencies

• Strategic thinking and planning
• Influence and persuasion
• Analytical problem solving
• Collaborative leadership
• Empowering and engaging others
• Continuous improvement
• Customer service leadership
• Diplomacy and tact in difficult conversations
• Results orientation
• Emotional intelligence under pressure
• Quality and operational focus

Benefits
ERSB offers a competitive compensation package that includes:

• Competitive salary
• Paid time off
• RRSP contribution
• Group benefits
• Employee Assistance Program

Work Location
255 Majors Path, St. John’s, NL

How to Apply
Submit your cover letter and résumé, including three (3) references, by email or mail:

Email: steve@waterwerks.agency

Mail:
Attention: Chairperson
Eastern Regional Service Board
255 Majors Path, Suite 3
St. John’s, NL A1A 0L5

Deadline for Applications
Applications must be received by 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 31, 2026. Note: Only candidates shortlisted for interviews will be contacted

Education : Master’s degree
Experience : 5 years or more

C1AO