Merritt is a small, caring, resilient city located in the stunning Nicola Valley of BC. We are surrounded by a spectacular sprawling rugged landscape at the hub of the Coquihalla highway mountain pass. Living in Merritt, you'll find short commutes, big amenities and an abundance of outdoor and indoor recreation and leisure amenities for all ages and preferences.

Working at the City of Merritt, you'll join a team of caring coworkers and innovative roll-up-your-sleeves who are passionate about public service and determined to make a difference. Whether we're delivering essential services, running community recreation programs, or more, our team takes pride in helping Merritt to be an attractive, sustainable, healthy and safe small city. We work together to build a respectful and inclusive workplace that reflects our values and the community we serve

The City of Merritt is currently seeking a talented individual to fill the role of Director of Community Services (2-year term). This position offers an exciting opportunity to play a key role in the senior leadership team. As the Director of Community Services, you will report directly to the Chief Administrative Officer and be responsible for providing strategic leadership to the Community Services department. Your main objective will be to develop, communicate, and implement departmental plans that align with the organization's goals and cater to the needs of the community.

In this role, you will lead the Recreation, Cultural Services, and Facilities teams, providing them with strategic guidance and fostering a positive work environment. You will also review and approve the operational plans and goals set by front-line managers, ensuring they align with the department and overall organization's strategic direction and caring culture.

Moreover, you will make it a priority to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for all employees, residents and visitors while also working towards eliminating systematic barriers. 

Collaborating with other departments and contributing to and participating in a healthy workplace culture will also be integral to your role.

Additionally, you be involved in carrying out strategic initiatives, establishing community partnerships and participating in key advisory committees. Building relationships with local businesses, agencies, Boards, and Community groups will also be an important aspect of your role in this two-year term position. 

As the Director of Community Services, you will be responsible for providing strategic recommendations and keeping the CAO and Council informed of emerging strategic issues. Furthermore, you will be required to prepare reports, draft budget policies and develop procedures for City Council's consideration.

As an exceptional people leader, you excel in building credibility and establishing effective relationships with your team, as well as other employees, volunteers, community leaders and external partners. 

Your educational background includes a degree in Recreation, Public Administration, Business Administration, or a related field. You have also gained valuable experience in roles related to recreation, community, culture, or a similar field, preferably in a municipal setting. An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered.

You hold yourself accountable for your personal effectiveness, the quality of your work and deadlines. You are confident in your abilities and possess strong collaboration and communication skills, enabling you to work effectively with individuals and groups and lead with humility.

You actively listen, foster trust and build effective teams, taking different perspectives into account before making decisions.

In addition to your excellent writing abilities, you are proficient in using MS Office 365. You are comfortable presenting to the City Council, addressing their questions, speaking in public and networking.

For individuals being newly hired or those in positions of trust, particularly those working directly with vulnerable individuals, a satisfactory Police Information Check and clean driving record are required as conditions of employment

We offer a Total Rewards package with competitive salaries, comprehensive extended health benefits and group insurance coverage, pension plan contributions, well-being benefits, an employee and family assistance plan (EAP), and exclusive perks.

If this term role is for you, apply today! We are actively recruiting for this position; for full consideration, please apply before November 7, 2023. 

The City of Merritt is an equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting an inclusive workforce that reflects the community we serve. We encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds. 

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.