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

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. Benefits and Perks

• Optional enrollment in the OMERS Pension Plan from the date of hire
• Work-life Balance Initiatives
• Wellness, Social and Staff Ambassador Committees
• Employee and Family Assistance Plan
• Perks and Savings Partnerships

Compensation
$144,412 - $168,942 per annum (compensation is currently under review)

Qualifications

• University degree in Business Administration and/or Public Administration Economic Development, Planning and Development or a related field. 

• Post graduate education considered an asset  

• Registered Professional Planner Designation considered an asset. 

• A minimum of ten(10) years’ experience with five (5) years management, supervisory experience.  

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 limited 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. 

Skills and Abilities

• Skilled leader and people manager with highly developed analytical and business planning skills, recognized for their ability to see the bigger picture as it relates to corporate leadership, long-term vision and strategic thinking. 

• Highly adept at engaging with elected officials, government representatives, management, peers, staff, and the public. 

• Extensive knowledge of Municipal, Provincial and Federal Acts, Regulations and Standards related to Planning, Building and Economic Development.  

• Verbal and written communication skills including the ability to communicate strategic and department decisions in a manner that aligns people and objectives.  Ability to facilitate discussion between working groups and the public. 

• Exemplary Interpersonal and customer service skills.  

• Ability to think and act strategically in a political and corporate service environment, to foster corporate thinking and a healthy workplace environment, to build strong and enthusiastic staff teams and external alliances/partnerships

• Strategic, long term and proactive planning skills; organizational and time management skills. 

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills 

• Demonstrated ability to empower and develop high-performing teams, fostering accountability and enabling staff to resolve complex challenges independently. 

• Proven ability to problem solve and mediate difficult situations. 

• Strong sense of integrity and sensitivity to confidential information. 

• Ability to successfully testify and provide evidence and professional expert opinions at tribunal hearings such as the OLT as required. 

Other

• Valid and satisfactory ‘G’ driver’s license and access to own vehicle. 

• Valid and satisfactory Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check. 

• Office environment with travel within the Municipality. 

• Availability to attend after-hours meetings. 

• Significant contact with outside government agencies, stakeholders and public.  

Submit an Application
Please submit your cover letter and resume online at  Careers - Municipality of Port Hope by Monday August 10, 2026. Interviews may be scheduled in advance of the closing date. 

Recruitment Process

The Municipality of Port Hope is a progressive employer who believes a diverse and inclusive workplace strengthens the team and fosters an environment where everyone feels as though they belong and their dignity, beliefs and identity are respected.

We are committed to creating and sustaining an environment that provides a supportive workplace and equal opportunity for all employees. Accommodations can be requested throughout the recruitment process in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act.

Applications will be reviewed, and interviews may be scheduled prior to the job posting closing date. All applicants will receive an automated email confirming the submission of their application, but only those candidates selected for an interview will be further contacted by Human Resources.

Personal information is collected under the authority of the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act and the Municipal Act, as amended.