Lethbridge offers an ideal mix of work and lifestyle for professionals and families. Just two hours from Calgary and one hour from the U.S. border, our city boasts a sunny climate, affordable housing, and a strong sense of community. With over 70 parks, vibrant cultural amenities, nearby outdoor recreation, and short commute times, Lethbridge provides an exceptional balance between career growth and quality of life.

 

The City of Lethbridge is seeking a seasoned and strategic Manager, Election, Census & Quasi-Judicial Services to join the City Clerk’s Office.

 

Reporting to the City Clerk, this leadership role provides expert oversight and advisory services related to municipal elections, census administration, quasi-judicial boards and hearings, legislative processes, and civic protocol. The Manager ensures legislative compliance, procedural integrity, and effective governance practices while supporting City Council, Administration, and the public.

 

As a trusted subject matter expert, the Manager offers guidance on parliamentary procedure, legislation, and governance matters, contributing to transparent, accountable decision-making across the organization. This position also plays a critical role in planning and delivering municipal elections and census initiatives, while overseeing the administration of quasi-judicial bodies in accordance with statutory requirements and best practices.

 

In the absence of the City Clerk and Deputy City Clerk, the Manager assumes the statutory responsibilities of the City Clerk under the Municipal Government Act, applicable bylaws, and corporate policies, and provides procedural advice to Council, the City Manager and the Senior Leadership Team at the meetings as the Acting Clerk.

 

This is an exciting opportunity for a collaborative leader who thrives in a complex legislative environment and is passionate about public service, governance excellence, and community engagement.

In this role, you will provide expert advice and guidance on the following areas:

 

Municipal Elections

• Serve as Substitute Returning Officer and lead the planning and delivery of:
• Municipal elections and by-elections
• Plebiscites and referendums
• Provincial Senate and referendum votes
• Interpret and implement evolving election legislation and regulatory requirements.
• Recruit, train, and supervise election workers.
• Oversee election logistics, facilities, voting processes, audits, and results tabulation.
• Provide guidance to candidates, scrutineers, staff, and the public on election procedures.
• Coordinate school board elections and provincial collaboration requirements.

 

Quasi-Judicial Boards Administration

• Accountable and provide guidance to staff on acting as Delegated Clerk for quasi-judicial boards, including:
• Assessment Review Board (ARB)
• Subdivision and Development Appeal Board (SDAB)
• Community Requirements Appeal Board (CRAB)
• Responsible for the administration of appeals, including complex, high-profile hearings.
• Provide procedural guidance while maintaining independence and impartiality.
• Accountable for the coordinator of hearings, evidence disclosure, member training, and legislative compliance.
• Review and provide guidance on drafted board decisions and record preparation for Court appeals.
• Oversee the coordination with board chairs, members, legal counsel, appellants, and external partners.

 

Municipal Census

• Direct planning and execution of municipal census initiatives.
• Recruit, train, and supervise census staff.
• Manage census technology, data validation, audits, and reporting to all levels of government.
• Interpret census legislation and ensure accurate population reporting.

 

Civic Protocol & Ceremonial Functions

• Lead corporate protocol programs supporting Council and the Corporation.
• Coordinate flag raisings, half-masts, civic ceremonies, and observances.
• Provide protocol guidance for Mayoral and Council participation in civic events.
• Evaluate reputational considerations and liaise with provincial partners as required.
• Manage requests for City Hall lighting and ceremonial recognitions.

 

People & Resource Leadership

• Lead, develop, and support professional staff within the City Clerk’s Office.
• Establish priorities, delegate work, and monitor operational effectiveness.
• Recommend and manage operational budgets and business plans.
• Ensure staff have tools, training, and resources required for success.

 

Contracts, Agreements & Statutory Services

• Ensure proper execution and permanent custody of corporate agreements and records.
• Provide Commissioner for Oaths services to the public.
• Support public education related to elections, governance, and civic processes.

 

Corporate Governance Initiatives

• Lead Council-directed governance projects and organizational initiatives.
• Support modernization of meeting processes, governance frameworks, and legislative practices.
• Contribute to City Clerk’s Office business planning, continuity planning, and technology improvements.
• Lead or support governance reviews, bylaw modernization, and election audits.

What You Bring to the Table

Qualifications & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Public Policy, Administration, Business, or a related field; or equivalent experience and training.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in municipal government, with extensive knowledge of the Municipal Government Act, Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FOIP), Local Authorities Election Act, municipal bylaws, and all other relevant legislation.
• Provincial certification in ATIA, SDAB, and ARB.
• Certified Parliamentarian designation (CMC, LGAA, or NACLAA) would be considered an asset.
• Completion of Administrative Justice course.
• Minimum of 3 years in a direct supervisory role.
• Demonstrated ability to proactively anticipate and respond to the corporate impact of legislative changes.
• Ability to handle confidential and politically sensitive matters with discretion and professionalism.
• Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills; ability to communicate effectively with elected officials, senior management, staff, and the public.
• Superior presentation skills; ability to convey clear, concise recommendations in written and oral form to Council, ELT, Senior Management, and the public during Council and Committee.
• Strong knowledge of computers, databases, and relevant information systems.
• Ability to work in partnership with departmental leaders to support FOIP strategy and ensure information protection across all corporate functions.
• Strong political acumen for sensing action and communications around elected officials and the City Manager.
• Strategic mindset with strong problem-solving and influencing capabilities.
• Proficiency in project management
• Ability to manage work scheduling and functional assignments to meet program requirements and service delivery standards.

Why You’ll Love It Here:

At the City of Lethbridge, we are committed to building a workplace where employees feel valued, supported, and empowered to contribute. You’ll be joining a collaborative, supportive team that values your input and celebrates our wins. Every day brings new challenges and opportunities to grow, adapt, and make a difference. If you bring a positive attitude, a passion for service, and a knack for leading with empathy and efficiency, this is the place for you.

 

For further information on this opportunity, please contact:

Bonnie Hilford at Bonnie.Hilford@lethbridge.ca

 

Qualified candidates are invited to submit their resume with cover letter, online by clicking on “Apply” at the top of this screen

 

Applicants must apply online. We are unable to accept paper copies of resumes or applications sent via email.

 

City of Lethbridge employees are to speak with their manager about their interest before submitting an application for another position within the City of Lethbridge. All out-of-scope employees must remain in their position for at least one (1) year before transitioning to a different position within the City of Lethbridge.  

 

Closing Date: April 29, 2026 at 4:00PM MST

                                               

All applicants are thanked in advance for their interest. Only individuals selected for interviews will be contacted.

                                                                                                                               

The City of Lethbridge (www.lethbridge.ca) proudly acknowledges that we are located at the heart of Siksikaitsitapi (Blackfoot) Territory, home of Kainai, Piikani, Siksika and Amskapi Piikani (Montana, USA) First Nations. Lethbridge is also located within the Métis Nation of Alberta.

 

The City of Lethbridge recognizes the diversity of our community and is working to ensure programs, services, facilities, and employment opportunities are inclusive to all people.

               

Civic Administration Association