Municipal Advisor, Western Region
About The Position
The Municipal Advisor is a senior advisory role focused on influence, trust, and judgment. You are a key connector between Nova Scotia’s municipalities and the Province, supporting effective local governance while helping provincial decision-makers stay grounded in municipal realities. You will be relied upon as a trusted advisor by municipal leadership, senior provincial officials, and elected representatives. Your work will often happen in complex, high-visibility environments where strong relationships, political awareness, and clear communication matter as much as technical knowledge. You will work independently across an assigned geographic area, providing front-facing guidance, resolving issues before they escalate, and helping municipalities navigate change, legislation, and emerging challenges. The impact of your work will be seen in stronger partnerships, better decision-making, and more resilient communities across the province.
Requirements
- Progressively responsible experience working with or within municipal government, intergovernmental relations, public administration, or a related advisory environment
- Deep understanding of municipal functions and the provincial legislative and policy framework that guides municipalities
- Extensive experience working with elected officials and navigating politically sensitive environments with discretion and sound judgment
- Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to influence, explain, and advise in complex or high-stakes situations
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills, including knowing when and how to escalate issues appropriately
- Demonstrated ability to build trust quickly and sustain effective relationships across diverse stakeholders
- Comfort working independently while managing multiple municipalities, priorities, and competing demands
- A valid driver’s licence, access to a reliable vehicle, and the ability to travel throughout the region are required
Nice To Haves
- Experience in adult learning, facilitation, or training delivery
- Advanced communication, public speaking, or media-facing experience
- Change management experience in a public-sector or municipal context
- Policy development or legislative review experience
- French language proficiency
Responsibilities
- Serve as a trusted liaison between municipalities and the Province, building credibility and long-term relationships
- Provide strategic, practical advice to municipal councils and senior staff on governance, finance, administration, and legislative authority
- Support municipalities in navigating provincial programs, policies, and legislative requirements
- Evaluate the impact of provincial and federal policy changes on municipalities and support local implementation
- Identify emerging or sensitive municipal issues and proactively brief senior leadership and the Minister
- Advise on governance structures, administrative practices, and legislative gaps, recommending changes where needed
- Facilitate collaboration, shared services, and inter-municipal partnerships to improve efficiency and outcomes
- Act as a mediator and problem-solver in complex or politically sensitive situations involving elected officials, staff, and community stakeholders
- Participate in or lead interdepartmental committees and cross-government initiatives related to municipal affairs
- Deliver presentations, workshops, and guidance sessions to municipal leaders and public audiences
- Contribute to the development of municipal-related policy, programs, and legislation
Benefits
- Defined Benefit Pension Plan
- Health
- Dental
- Life Insurance
- General illness
- Short and Long Term Disability
- Vacation
- Employee and Family Assistance Programs
- Career Development where you have access to career guidance, tools, resources, and ongoing training for every stage of your career
- Engaging workplace: our Employees feel valued, respected, connected, and tuned in, we have forward-thinking policies and strategies
- Countless career paths
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
Education Level
No Education Listed
