City of Richmond Hill Hiring For Manager Development Richmond Hill Centre at Richmond Hill, ON Full Time

Position Summary

The Manager of Development will provide sectional leadership and guidance. You will implement and promote the City’s strategic plan and foster a culture of innovation, engagement, collaboration and respect. You will manage and train Development Planning Section staff who are responsible for the processing of all development applications. You will provide expert advice to the Ontario Land Tribunal, Council, Senior Management and other stakeholders. You will manage expectations and resolve complex issues and conflict related to the processing of development applications and studies.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Manage and train staff who are responsible for the processing of all development applications including Official Plan Amendment, Zoning By-law Amendment, draft Plan of Subdivision, draft Plan Condominium, Part Lot Control Exemption, Site Plan, Consent, Minor Variance, Sign By-law and Municipal Addressing applications in Richmond Hill Centre
• Provide expert advice and direction to the Ontario Land Tribunal, Council, Senior Management and other stakeholders with respect to all development applications submitted to the City while protecting the public interest
• Attend Ontario Land Tribunal hearings to provide expert testimony
• Liaise with City Solicitor and other subject matter witnesses to prepare City positions
• Review and approve staff positions on development applications, and implement documents such as the Official Plan Amendments, Zoning By-Laws, etc.
• Manage expectations and resolve complex issues and conflicts related to the processing of development applications and studies as raised by Council, applicants, circulated commenting departments/agencies and the general public
• Attend Council, Committee of the Whole, Committee of Adjustment, and other meetings to identify emerging issues, provide clarity and direction to matters pertaining to the planning approval process and the duties and responsibilities of the City
• Meet and communicate directly with individuals or groups to scope identified issues and prepare a course of action to resolve potential conflicts
• Address and resolve issues related to the preparation of Terms of Reference for MESPs, EISs, Secondary Plans, Tertiary Plans, Infill Studies, etc.

Duties and Responsibilities Cont’d (if applicable)

• Manage procedural matters and the application of policies and regulations related to matters before the applicable committee
• Assist in the formulation of initial City position with respect to the preparation and submission of various development applications
• Manage the establishment of urban area expansions, prepare Secondary Plan policies and associated implementing documents
• Lead City-initiated policy matters
• Regular review of various development application processes to ensure that the City’s interests are addressed and to ensure that development is in conformity with implementing approval documents at the City, regional and provincial levels
• Liaise with York Region Land Registry Office with respect to ongoing matters related to the registration of City-related documents
• Represent the department on specific committees/projects
• Leads the sectional priorities, development and management of staff to ensure efficient delivery of services while encouraging creative thinking and the development of innovative solutions
• Responsible for sectional budget preparation and monitoring

Education and Experience

• Degree in Urban Planning, Public Administration or related discipline
• Canadian Institute of Planners (MCIP) designation is required
• Ontario Professional Planners Institute (OPPI) is required
• 7 years progressive experience

Required Skills/Knowledge

• Proficient in Microsoft Office, OnPoint, OCE Web, ABC Docs, PALIS, Adobe
• Knowledge of planning and municipal government related legislation, policies and principles
• Maintain knowledge of emerging trends, issues and challenges
• Political awareness, and experience dealing with Council, and other stakeholders
• Project management and prioritization skills
• Research, analytical, critical thinking and problem solving skills
• Conflict resolution, creativity, negotiation, facilitation and alternative dispute resolution skills
• Ability to comprehend, synthesize and explain complex planning documents and legislation
• Manages organizational change through strong leadership and communication skills
• Ability to work independently, combined with well-developed organization and time management skills and the ability to deal effectively with tact, courtesy, discretion and diplomacy with all levels of staff and the public
• Demonstrates and encourages perseverance and resilience in difficult times
• Demonstrates strong written and verbal communication skills
• Encourages innovative thinking and new ideas
• Proven ability to oversee and manage budgets
• Demonstrates and encourages excellent listening skills and different points of view
• Ensures that objectives and accountabilities are clearly communicated within the department
• Empowers staff to support a culture of learning, mentoring, and sharing
• Must be and willing and able to transport yourself to City work sites as required (mileage compensated).
• Regular attendance at Council or other meetings outside regular business hours

Leadership Competencies