Job Description

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced individual to fill the role of Manager of Legal Services. In this position, you will lead our legal team and our privacy and access team, provide strategic direction, guidance, and support while also serving as a senior legal advisor to the organization. This role offers a unique opportunity to combine managerial responsibilities with hands-on legal work, making a significant impact on Strathcona County’s operations and objectives.

The Manager of Legal Services provides leadership and future direction for the Legal Services Branch and legal services for the organization. Under the direction of the Director of Legislative, Legal and Procurement, this position provides counsel to Council, Senior Administration, Department Directors, County employees, and Council Advisory Committees through provision of sound legal advice to guide municipal policies, decisions and activities.

The Manager is responsible to plan, direct, control and integrate the use of Strathcona County resources for the provision of legal services. This position supervises and directs legal representation and support of Strathcona County in all areas of law, including at various Court levels.

The Manager is responsible for key operational decisions of the branch and will also undertake key legal services for the organization. This position occupies a significant role in supporting the critical decision making on the part of both the County Council and County Administration and is a member of the Legislative, Legal and Procurement ("LLP") Management Team.

Responsibilities:

• Leads and manages the Legal Services Branch
• Develop and implement plans for provision of legal services and access to information and privacy services to the County
• Direct and coordinate the provision of legal services for the County
• Liaise with key stakeholders across the Organization to develop recommendations and new strategic initiatives in support of the County's strategic direction and Council's vision
• Supports the County in developing, interpreting, and implementing legislation and bylaws and provides advice and direction to facilitate a County legal framework that is cohesive and compliant with the Constitution and other key legislation, both federal and provincial
• Manage the highly professional team within the Branch and provide direction and support to team members
• Participate in the development of the LLP budget and monitor expenditures within the Branch
• Furnish legal advice, counsel, and assistance to the Director of LLP, Executive Team, Council, and County departments, officers, committees, and agencies in relation to their duties and the business of the County
• Participate in decisions related to County policies and operations; provide legal advice to guide policies, decisions and activities; provide advice, counsel and representation to protect the county’s interests
• Utilize knowledge of planning and development law, advises and counsels the County regarding land use, zoning and provides support to the public hearing process, as needed
• Research, review, draft, and negotiate all forms of contracts and public bids, advise staff on contract, bid and change order disputes, represent the County in related property transactions
• Advise County staff regarding legislative requirements, administrative law principles, jurisdictional requirements, and evidentiary requirements and ensure that County staff appearing in tribunal or Court matters are supported as needed
• Provide legal advice regarding employee matters
• Provide appropriate training to Council and Administration on legal, access to information, and privacy matters
• Work collaboratively with external legal service providers as needed

Qualifications and Skills:

• Law degree from an accredited university, with active membership in good standing with the Law Society of Alberta
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in the area of municipal law, preferably some within a local government setting
• Experience in leadership and management, including allocating and monitoring work
• Comprehensive knowledge of planning and development law, procurement law, contract and other areas of municipal law
• Knowledge of applicable federal, provincial, and municipal laws, rules and regulations affecting municipal government including public utilities, access and privacy, municipal finance and municipal liability
• General knowledge of municipal organization, operations, policies, objectives and principles, and practices of municipal administration, supervision, training and budgeting
• Extensive experience in drafting of contracts, bylaws or other legislation, and other legal documents
• Experience in providing legal advice and opinions to public sector clients and project teams
• Excellent collaboration and interpersonal skills with clients and others, signified by professionalism, integrity, respect for the opinions and views of others, tact, empathy, patience and courtesy
• Ability to use standard office software (Microsoft suite), and on-line legal research products (Canlii, Quicklaw, Westlaw, KP Source)

Who we are:

Strathcona County is a specialized municipality located in the heart of Alberta. Our vision is to become Canada’s most livable community, where our workplace culture and identity are supported by our people plan and values of integrity, respect, safety, fairness, and cooperation.

Why Join Strathcona County: (depending on position)

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, which includes:
  • Extended health and dental coverage
  • Health and wellness spending account
  • Life and disability insurance
  • Retirement and pension programs
  • Paid and unpaid leave programs
  • Management Flex time program
  • Employee and family assistance program
• Commitment to employee development, through internal and external training and development opportunities.
• Well-being programs and a safety culture focused on physical and psychological health in the workplace.

Equivalencies of education and experience may be considered.

This competition may be used to fill future vacancies for similar positions within the next 6 months.

Strathcona County is committed to an inclusive, respectful, and equitable workplace that represents the community we serve. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds who can contribute diverse perspectives and experiences.

Interviews are expected to be conducted in mid July. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.