Manager, Community Planning

Location: Ontario | Reports to: Executive Director, Development Services

The Opportunity

We're partnering with a growing Ontario municipality to find a Manager, Community Planning — a senior planning leader who will oversee both development approvals and GIS functions for the community. This is a chance to shape how a municipality grows: guiding policy, leading a talented team, and working directly with Council on the decisions that define the built setting for years to come.

If you're a Registered Professional Planner who thrives on balancing strategic policy work with hands-on team leadership, this role offers real influence over both.

What You'll Do

- Lead and manage the Community Planning Division — its people, budget, and day-to-day priorities — in step with the municipality's broader vision and annual business plan
- Supervise and support staff and external consultants across development approvals and GIS
- Build a collaborative, cross-departmental culture that gets things done
- Guide staff performance, development, and growth in line with collective agreements
- Act as the municipality's connector — liaising with government agencies, neighbouring municipalities, and community organizations on planning matters
- Bring professional planning expertise to Council, the Committee of Adjustment,



the Ontario Land Tribunal, and other approval bodies
- Shape the fee structures, policies, and procedures that keep development control running smoothly
- Prepare and manage the divisional budget, including capital submissions, and monitor spending alongside Finance

What You Bring

- A degree in Urban Planning (or related field) from an accredited institution
- 7+ years of progressive experience in planning
- 5+ years supervising teams
- Registration as a Professional Planner (MCIP/OPPI or equivalent)
- Strong command of the Planning Act, the Provincial Planning Statement, and related legislation (Development Charges Act, Environmental Assessment Act, Municipal Act, Ontario Heritage Act)
- A track record leading multi-disciplinary teams through complex development approvals
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the confidence to manage multiple priorities at once

The Details

- Full-time, office-based role (35 hours/week, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.)
- Attendance at evening Council and Committee meetings as required
- Some travel may be required
- Grade 10, Non-Union position

Interested in learning more? Reach out to Align Collective for a confidential conversation about this opportunity.

📌 Manager of Community Planning (Lakeshore)
🏢 Align Collective
📍 Lakeshore