General Manager, Legal and Legislative Services

General Manager, Legal and Legislative Services

Located in the picturesque Fraser Valley, an hour outside of Vancouver, the City of Abbotsford is the fifth-largest municipality in BC with a population of approximately 153,500.  Surrounded by majestic mountains and working fields, Abbotsford offers a rural charm and friendly small-town hospitality within a fast-paced urban cityscape that boasts a flair for trade, commerce, and entertainment.  Young families and working professionals continue to relocate to Abbotsford, drawn by the affordable real estate, booming economy, and superior quality of life. Residents have access to extensive civic recreational and entertainment facilities, including indoor and outdoor pools, and a 7000-seat spectator arena which hosts the Abbotsford Canucks AHL hockey team as well as world class concerts, shows and attractions. Abbotsford has excellent recreational facilities and is home to two private and three City-operated arenas, hundreds of parks and playing fields, and an extensive trail system that spans the entire community. Abbotsford’s educational facilities encompass pre-school to post-secondary levels, with full degree programs offered by the University of the Fraser Valley. Elementary and secondary education is provided by both public and privately-operated institutions.  The major medical facility is the Abbotsford Regional Hospital and Cancer Centre (ARHCC), a state-of-the-art, 300-bed hospital.  The ARHCC provides enhanced and specialized health services to more than 330,000 people in the Fraser Valley region.  There are also a number of intermediate and extended care facilities as well as a unique Campus of Care tri-fold medical centre that includes the second BC Children’s Hospital. And don’t forget about our fabulous, municipally owned and operated Abbotsford International Airport to connect you with destinations around the world.

The Opportunity: General Manager, Legal and Legislative Services

Reporting to the City Manager and contributing broadly as part of the Strategic Leadership Team, the General Manager (“GM”) will be responsible for providing strategic leadership and oversight of the Legal and Legislative Services portfolio in alignment with the City’s vision, mission, and values, as well as with City Council’s Strategic Plan. The GM will oversee legal, legislative, property, risk, and bylaw functions for the City and lead and direct the daily administration of the department to ensure the efficient and effective delivery of high quality services. The GM will collaborate across all departments within the City and provide strategic advice and expertise to Council. The GM participates in long-term strategic planning and annual budget review, works collaboratively to ensure the effective development and implementation of corporate initiatives, and attends all Council and relevant Committee meetings.

The ideal candidate will have a demonstrated track record of success in a senior leadership role within a progressive municipality, regional district or complex public-sector organization. The GM must possess an undergraduate degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Legal or equivalent. A recognized designation such as Lawyer (LLB) or a Master’s Degree in Business Administration (MBA) or Public Administration (MPA) is desirable.  They will bring a practical, collaborative and innovative approach to problem solving and the ability to form partnerships with key stakeholders to define and implement projects. Working in a highly integrated manner with other City departments is critical to success in this leadership position as is a keen understanding of the value of public engagement and outreach. Candidates should possess experience in managing a broad portfolio including legal and legislative services, administration, business operations, business services, and property management.

The salary range for this position is $212,539 -$250,796.

At the City of Abbotsford, we offer ongoing personal and professional development opportunities, competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package.

To apply, please visit us online at www.abbotsford.ca/careers