Councillor's Assistant VII - Chief of Staff

JOB SUMMARY

Reporting directly to the City Councillor, the Chief of Staff leads all aspects of office operations, strategy, and staff management for a high-profile political office. This senior role is responsible for setting priorities, supervising staff, overseeing policy development, managing casework systems, and ensuring alignment with the Councillor’s mandate. The Chief of Staff represents the Councillor in internal and external forums, provides leadership on key files and political issues, and serves as the primary liaison between the office and City officials, residents, and stakeholders. Success in this role requires exceptional political judgment, organizational oversight, and the ability to manage complex, high-stakes initiatives.

DESCRIPTION OF RESPONSIBILITIES

Office Management and Supervision

• Serve as the primary supervisor for all staff, including onboarding, training, performance evaluations, and work planning.
• Oversee administrative logistics in collaboration with OM/EA.
• Review financial transactions and oversee budget planning and reporting.
• Ensure compliance with Council expense policy and City procedures.

Strategic and Political Liaison

• Act as liaison with Mayor’s office, Council members, senior staff, and external stakeholders.
• Represent the Councillor in meetings and briefings, where delegated.
• Oversee policy development, research, and strategic issue management.

Constituency Work and Case Oversight

• Develop office procedures for managing high volumes of casework.
• Review complex resident inquiries and determine next steps.
• Provide strategic support and background materials to the Councillor.

Public Engagement and Policy

• Oversee planning and execution of community events and consultations.
• Provide policy advice and track emerging issues.
• Support Councillor’s committee work, reviewing documentation and drafting agendas as needed.

Communications Leadership

• May oversee preparation of newsletters, press releases, and media content.
• Provide guidance on tone, content, and messaging strategy.
• Supervise social media planning, web updates, and digital outreach.

Working Conditions

• Requires flexibility for evening and weekend commitments.
• Must demonstrate discretion, diplomacy, and professionalism in all public-facing duties.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Post-secondary education in public administration, political science, or communications.
5+ years’ experience in political, communications, or public sector leadership

KNOWLEDGE

• Proven experience managing staff and budgets.

COMPETENCIES, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Strategic thinking, sound judgment, and excellent interpersonal skills.
• High proficiency in Microsoft Office; experience with case tracking software.