Manager of Planning

Opportunity

Reporting to the Director of Development and Environmental Sustainability, the role leads a team of technical and administrative staff with a high volume of complex planning applications.

Summary of Responsibilities (complete job description available upon request)

• Research and review planning applications for completeness and compliance with the Township’s zoning by-law and conformity with provincial policy statements and upper and lower-tier official plans, in an independent and effective manner, providing sign-off approval of a large volume of planning reports prepared by junior staff for Committees and Council across all planning application types.
• Daily supervision and leadership of Planning staff (both technical and administrative positions), coordination and oversight of staff responsibilities, mentorship and general career development, recruitment and performance evaluation and management.
• Prepare and present effective technical staff reports, including the evaluation of alternatives and sound recommendations to Committees, Councils, management, other groups or the public with respect to planning applications, legislation, policy and implementation instruments.
• Oversee the regular review and legislated processes required to amend the Township’s Official Plan and Zoning By-law. Responsible for the overall administration of the zoning by-law.
• Gather, prepare and report on all relevant information with respect to giving evidence at Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) hearings or in Court (with respect to Planning Act violations) including providing witness statements and sworn affidavits.
• Interpret, apply and explain complex Provincial policies and regulations, Official Plan policies, zoning by-law provisions, and provisions of other municipal by-laws including the Township’s Tree Conservation and Site Alteration By-laws.
• Oversee the development and implementation of agreements in consultation with legal counsel (e.g. site plan, consent, and development agreements) as well as the formal release of these agreements from being registered on title.
• In conjunction with the Director of Development and Environmental Sustainability, plan and prepare policy initiatives, improvements, and/or legislative updates to report to Council or Committees.
• Undertake corporate policy functions including research, environmental projects and planning policy review, analysis and preparation and project manage work of consultants retained by the Township.
• Communicate effectively and maintain excellent working relationships with officials, co-workers, the public, representatives of organizations and others sufficient to exchange or convey information and receive input.
• Consult with other staff and professional peers (e.g. external agencies) by telephone, meetings and correspondence to maintain a high level of communication and understanding between all parties involved, in order to reduce the incidence of misunderstandings and avoid delays. The position requires a high degree of collaboration with internal departments, including the By-law Enforcement and Development Services Divisions.
• Read and review surveys, blueprints and site plans and conduct site inspections.
• In conjunction with the Director of Development and Environmental Sustainability, assist in the development of, and administer, the Planning Division’s operating and capital budgets.
• Oversee approval/sign-off of refunds, securities returns, and numerous formal letters.
• Fulfill all Planning responsibilities of the Director of Development & Environmental Sustainability in his/her absence
• Related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

• University degree in Urban and Regional Planning, Rural Planning, Environmental Studies, Geography or a related field with emphasis on urban, rural or environmental studies or resource management.
• Thorough knowledge of principles, practices and procedures related to urban, rural and regional planning and zoning administration, including applicable laws and regulations.
• 7 years of related experience.
• 5 years of supervisory or management experience
• Registered Professional Planner (RPP) designation.
• Qualified as an expert witness at the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT).

• A solid understanding of and technical expertise with respect to legislation, regulations, policy and implementation instruments. • Proven ability to take initiative and make independent evaluations or recommendations and in achieving performance objectives.

• Proven ability to interpret, apply and explain complex laws, regulations, policies, and zoning by-law provisions.
• Proven ability to demonstrate political acuity and tact.
• Ingenuity, integrity and creativity with strong communication, interpersonal, analytical, writing, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Technological proficiency and a valid Ontario driver’s and boating license. Use own vehicle as required.