Senior Strategic Advisor - Financial Management at City of Grande Prairie

City of Grande Prairie Senior Strategic Advisor

Currently the City of Grande Prairie has an opening for a highly skilled Senior Strategic Advisor (SSA) to provide strategic, analytical, and operational support to the Chief Financial Officer.

As the primary advisor and first point of contact for the Chief Officer, the SSA represents the organization with professionalism and diplomacy while managing complex, sensitive, and confidential matters. The role leads corporate strategic initiatives, provides high-level research and analysis, supports organizational priorities, and facilitates cross-departmental collaboration. Your insights will shape long-term planning, guide executive decision-making, align Council priorities with organizational execution, and drive innovation and strategic growth.

Key Responsibilities

Executive Support & Strategic Advisory

• Serve as the primary point of contact for the Chief Officer’s office, ensuring timely, accurate flow of information.
• Anticipate needs by synthesizing diverse information from multiple sources.
• Provide strategic advice and analysis to the Chief Officer and Directors.
• Prepare high-quality briefing notes, reports, letters, and presentations for senior leadership, Council, committees, and external partners.
• Represent the Office of the Chief Officer on committees and working groups, ensuring alignment with corporate strategy and Council direction.
  
  

Strategic Research & Analysis

• Conduct complex research and analysis on policy, economic, organizational, and operational issues.
• Produce evidence-based recommendations, reports, and briefing materials.
• Monitor emerging trends and risks, providing proactive insights to guide strategic decision-making.
• Perform quantitative and qualitative analysis to support continuous improvement and business planning.
  
  

Project & Initiative Leadership

• Lead and coordinate cross-departmental strategic initiatives and special projects from initiation to completion.
• Develop project charters, plans, critical paths, timelines, and milestones.
• Monitor progress, track risks, and implement solutions to keep initiatives on schedule.
• Apply change management methodologies to support successful implementation.
• Prepare project reports for the Corporate Leadership Team, Standing Committees, and Council.
  
  

Strategic Planning & Improvement

• Lead and support continuous improvement initiatives that enhance service effectiveness and efficiency.
• Contribute to corporate strategic planning tools, frameworks, and methodologies.
• Ensure alignment between service area planning and Council’s Strategic Plan.
• Support financial stewardship through budget analysis and basic asset management principles.
  
  

Stakeholder & Relationship Management

• Build strong, collaborative relationships with elected officials, senior leaders, colleagues, external agencies, community partners, and residents.
• Facilitate cross-departmental alignment and influence outcomes that advance organizational goals.
• Demonstrate tact, diplomacy, and sound judgment in sensitive or high-profile matters.
  
  

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Public Administration, Commerce.
• A CPA designation is required.
  
  

Experience

• 5 years of progressive experience in strategic planning, project management, financial management, research, or executive advisory roles.
• Experience supporting senior executives is an asset.
• Experience in municipal or public-sector environments preferred.
  
  

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong financial and business acumen; experience with budget interpretation.
• Strong understanding of strategic planning, organizational operations, and project management principles.
• Exceptional research, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, able to prepare polished reports and presentations.
• High political acuity and strong situational judgment.
• Skilled at building relationships and facilitating cross-functional collaboration.
• Ability to work independently, manage competing priorities, and meet stringent deadlines.
• Proficiency with MS Office, Visio, and enterprise systems (Oracle).
  
  

Schedule & Culture

Hours

Standard 40-hour workweek; specific schedule determined by supervisor.

Work Culture

The City of Grande Prairie offers a supportive and flexible work environment that encourages career development, work-life balance, and employee wellness. Staff enjoy access to wellness programs, social activities, and community engagement opportunities.

Compensation & Benefits

Salary

• $49.33/hour (Band F, Entry Step) to $65.03/hour, as per the Out-of-Scope Agreement.
  
  

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Details: What We Offer | City of Grande Prairie (cityofgp.com)
  
  

Diversity & Inclusion

The City of Grande Prairie values diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity. We strive to foster a workplace where all individuals feel respected, supported, and empowered to contribute their talents.

Application Process

• Submit your cover letter and resume using the “Apply Now” tab (include Job ID).
• Shortlisted candidates will be contacted by email or phone to schedule an interview.
  
  

Please Note

• After submitting your application, you will receive an email confirmation. No further action is required.
• Due to high application volume, we cannot respond to job-specific inquiries prior to interviews.
• Questions will be welcomed if you are selected for an interview.
• This temporary position may be available to permanent employees as a secondment/development opportunity.