Interim Director, Development Services - Closing Monday August 10, 2026

Municipality of Port Hope•Port Hope, ON

13d•CA$144,412 - CA$168,942•Hybrid

About The Position

Port Hope is a uniquely attractive place to work, highlighted by the future development of potentially the world's largest nuclear plant, which promises cutting-edge infrastructure and economic stability. This diversification into nuclear energy complements the area's strong economic base in agriculture and manufacturing, securing a stable job market. Employees will engage with advanced technology and industry experts, enhancing professional development. The community's warmth promotes work-life balance, supported by cultural festivals and heritage sites. Proximity to Toronto/GTA provides urban access, while the area's natural beauty invites outdoor recreation. High-quality education and healthcare, low crime rates, and a commitment to environmental sustainability make Port Hope an exceptional place to live and work, fostering both professional and personal growth. As a member of the Senior Management team the Director, Development Services (“Director”) is responsible for the strategic leadership, planning, management, and administration of the Municipality of Port Hope’s (“Municipality”) Planning, Development Engineering, Economic Development and Building Services Divisions. The Director, Development Services is responsible for ensuring that the business units adopt an innovative approach to service delivery that is progressive and aligned with vision, mission, and values of the corporation, as identified within the Municipality’s Strategic Plan. The Director, Development Services leads a multi-functional, multi-disciplinary, team-oriented department responsible for helping to shape Port Hope’s future growth and economic prosperity. Guided by the Municipality’s Strategic Plan, corporate policies, good planning principles, the Director, Development Services has overarching responsibility for setting and achieving departmental objectives and goals and for the provision of high-quality services and programs to our external customers in a cost-effective manner. Term Approximately 13 months ending October 2027.

Requirements

University degree in Business Administration and/or Public Administration Economic Development, Planning and Development or a related field.
A minimum of ten(10) years’ experience with five (5) years management, supervisory experience.
Valid and satisfactory ‘G’ driver’s license and access to own vehicle.
Valid and satisfactory Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check.

Nice To Haves

Post graduate education considered an asset
Registered Professional Planner Designation considered an asset.

Responsibilities

As a member of the Senior Management Team, works collaboratively across departments to achieve corporate objectives, advance organizational effectiveness, and implement corporate strategies, policies and projects.
Provide leadership, vision, strategic thinking, risk assessment / management, fiscal responsibility and management of staff in a manner which incorporates best practices, technological advances, Corporate strategic goals, priorities, mission, values, short and long-range growth planning and management and the interests of the public. The Director shall ensure that the actions of the department and staff comply with Corporate Policy, Strategic Plan and all applicable Municipal, Federal and Provincial requirements.
Responsible for demonstrating positive leadership through the leadership of staff, including developing a competent management team, directing/guiding work assignments, revising position responsibilities, performance management, identifying and supporting professional development needs/training, administration of payroll, coaching, motivating and empowering staff to meet the expectations of the position.
Establishes strategic priorities for the Development Services Department that align with the goals and objectives of the Corporate Strategic Plan, as well as the growth readiness needs that will be expected as a result to the New Nuclear Project in Port Hope. Ensure that the efficient delivery of strategic projects and private development that results in a healthy and prosperous community that is growth ready.
Lead, through the Manager, Planning, the Municipal compliance with Provincial land-use legislation, policies and plans, including but not the Provincial Policy Statement, Growth Plan and Ontario Planning Act.
Lead, through the Manager, Planning the development and management of strategies and policies for: the residential planning and development of the rural and urban areas of the community; incorporating long range community planning for regional passenger transit services; the increased demand for housing, the need for affordable and attainable housing and the development of planning policies that respects the rich heritage of Port Hope and considers impacts of climate change.
Lead, through the Manager, Economic Development and the Manager, Planning, the development and management of strategies and policies for the economic development of the Municipality; addressing the business development pressures that are moving outside the Greater Toronto area by seeking and incorporating in the short and long-range planning the development of affordable business lands with adequate services and costs.
Lead, through the Manager, Economic Development, the development and management of strategies and policies that may include economic development; business retention and expansion; investment attraction, commercial/industrial sector development; marketing; tourism; Downtown revitalization and related Community Improvement Plans; incorporating the vision for the downtown development, physical design enhancement and property improvements to meet the community objectives; strategies and plans to maximize community economic benefit from the potential New Nuclear Project, working closely with project partners to recruit and attract world class investment.
Lead, through the Chief Building Official, the administration and enforcement of the Ontario Building Code, and other Statutes and By-laws pertaining to the use and occupancy of buildings and properties within the Municipality of Port Hope. Ensure the delivery of high quality and efficient Building Services in compliance with all applicable laws, standards and regulations.
Ensure that the Planning, Economic Development, Development Engineering and Building Divisions work together to ensure that Council priorities, administrative direction and community needs are met. As well as ensure that internal and external customers are provided with high quality services/programs, and that policies are consistent with the Municipality’s Strategic Plan.
Work with key stakeholders, develop strategies to support the rural community ensuring its long-term success in evolving circumstances.
Develop and manage the Development Services department long and short-term financial planning and the department operating and capital budget; develop costing and prioritize capital initiatives and operating requirements to optimize programs and services with financial accountability to the taxpayer; monitor and ensure expenditures are consistent with operating objectives and source funding programs wherever available.
Knowledge of the Municipality’s “Health and Safety Policy” and ensure that Departmental operating procedures comply with these provisions and those of the Occupational Health and Safety Act and its Regulations, including WHMIS. Take all reasonable and necessary precautions to ensure the safety of oneself, other employees, the public, and any person likely to be affected by the employee’s acts or omissions. Participate as may be required by the Municipality’s Emergency Plan.
Represent the department and provide advice and recommendations to Council, the public, special purpose bodies, committees, government agencies, stakeholders, and interest groups by communicating information and corporate objectives; recommend courses of action and facilitate solutions affecting administration and/or service delivery; attend Council meetings, Committee of the Whole meetings and other Committees of Council as required.
Authorize and review the Expression of Interest, Request for Quote, and Request for Proposals; write and / or review Committee of the Whole and / or Council Reports.
Responsible for overseeing the department’s Municipal Asset Management Planning, including data validation; condition assessments; levels of service; service risks; lifecycles; operations, maintenance and replacement cost; as well as reviewing and making recommendations regarding the Municipality’s Asset Management Plan. This position is a member of the Asset Management Steering Committee which provides direction for ongoing development of Municipal Asset Management Planning.
Maintain a liaison with the media, other municipal administrations, local boards and utilities, government ministries, community groups and organizations to ensure good public relations, exchange of knowledge, solutions and best practice improvements related to the work of the department and the Municipality.
Provide a positive, professional image to the public and promote the Corporate Strategic Plan of the Municipality and the Department. Demonstrate commitment to personal and professional development by remaining current with new legislation, regulations, technology and organizational theory and practices relating to the Municipality.
Adhere to high standards of ethical behaviour and demonstrate understanding that personal actions impact the public’s perception of the Municipality.
Perform other duties as may be assigned.