Program Manager

The Program Manager, Partnerships & Contracts is accountable for the operational leadership, integration, and performance of the provincial EHS contract management function, ensuring that contracts are strategically designed, effectively implemented, and actively managed to support safe, high-quality, and sustainable service delivery across Alberta. Reporting to the Program Chief, Partnerships, this role is responsible for translating enterprise partnership strategy into practical contract frameworks, procurement approaches, and day-to-day management practices. The Program Manager provides leadership across the full contract lifecycle-including contract initiation, sourcing, negotiation, performance monitoring, compliance management, amendments, and service transitions-ensuring alignment with provincial priorities, regulatory requirements, and operational realities.

A core expectation of the role is to strengthen and sustain effective relationships with contract service providers and system partners, recognizing that strong partnerships are foundational to successful service delivery. The Program Manager leads a relationship-first approach to contract management by fostering trust, transparency, and shared accountability with municipalities, private and not-for-profit providers, Indigenous partners, and other stakeholders. In doing so, the role ensures that contracts act as enablers of collaborative, outcome-driven partnerships, rather than solely as instruments of compliance. The Program Manager is also accountable for balancing contractual obligations with partner sustainability and operational considerations, proactively identifying and addressing performance issues, risks, and emerging challenges through active engagement, negotiation, and problem-solving. This includes working closely with internal partners (e.g., Operations, Legal, Finance, and Supply Chain) and external stakeholders to resolve complex issues, support service continuity, and enable effective transitions between service delivery models. Through leadership of the contract management team, the role ensures consistent application of best practices, standardized processes, and performance frameworks, while continuously improving how EHS manages contracts and engages partners. Ultimately, the Program Manager plays a critical role in ensuring that contract strategy execution and partner relationships are aligned to achieve high-performing, integrated EHS service delivery across the province.

Undergraduate degree in business or management. A minimum of 10 years of progressive emergency service leadership or managerial experience in large organizations. At least 5 years of experience in managing or the procurement of contracts for service provision (as a proponent or buying organization). Valid class 5 Alberta Operator License, with a maximum of 6 demerit points.

As Required.

A strong knowledge of the EMS service delivery model. Knowledge and demonstrated application of strategic business planning, and project management. Significant practical experience and knowledge of strategy, policy development, negotiations and relations. Effective communicator with strong organizational skills, client focused orientation and commitment to providing quality services. Ability to manage change and create innovative solutions for complex and diverse issues.