Director, Planning Services

The City of Kingston is grateful to experience the traditional territories of Anishinabek (Ah-nish-nah-beg), Haudenosaunee (Ho-den-o-show-nee) and Huron-Wendat (huron-wen
· dat). Kingston is a smart, livable city in the heart of eastern Ontario. Its stable and diversified economy includes global corporations, innovative start‑ups and all levels of government.

At the City of Kingston, we believe that diversity and inclusion are essential elements of a thriving workplace. We value the unique perspectives and experiences that each individual brings to our team. As we continue to grow, we are dedicated to creating an environment where all employees feel welcomed, respected, and empowered to contribute their best work. The City of Kingston views diversity as its strength and we encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including those from underrepresented communities.

As staff, you play a pivotal role in enhancing people's lives by delivering exceptional, customer‑centered services of the highest quality. Within our highly ethical environment, you'll embrace accountability by consistently going above and beyond, actively listening to our customers, creatively addressing their needs, and maintaining unwavering respect for all individuals you serve. As a result, you'll become an integral part of our qualified and dynamic team, recognized for its compassion, excellence, integrity, inclusivity, and adaptability.

Under the general direction of the Commissioner, Growth & Development Services, the Director, Planning Services / Chief Planner is responsible for the overall direction, management, and oversight of all municipal land use planning, development review, building services, and often economic development initiatives. The Director guides sustainable growth, ensures compliance with provincial and municipal legislation, and fosters a high quality of life for residents by shaping the built and natural environment.

This position plays a critical role in providing expert advice and recommendations to Council, Committees of Council, and the public on complex development and land use matters. The Director of Planning Services/Chief Planner plays a leadership role in the development of growth‑related policies and assists in providing policy advice to other City initiatives related to economic development, Brownfield redevelopment, transportation, accessibility, and environmental aspects of City development.

The Director, Planning Services / Chief Planner is responsible for integrating strategic planning, operational activities, and the interests and needs of stakeholders while ensuring fair, ethical, and responsible decision making, and appropriate management of resources.

• Strategic Oversight
  :
  Provides visionary and strategic leadership for the Planning & Development department, aligning initiatives with the municipality’s Strategic Plan, Official Plan, and other corporate goals.
• Policy Development
  :
  Develops, recommends, and implements progressive land use policies, bylaws, and programs to guide growth, protect natural heritage, promote sustainable development, and enhance community design.
• Official Plan Management
  :
  Leads the review and updating of the Official Plan, Zoning Bylaw, and other significant land use planning documents.
• Legislative Compliance
  :
  Stays abreast of changes in provincial legislation (e.g., Planning Act, Building Code Act, Development Charges Act, Municipal Act) and emerging trends in urban planning, development, and building sciences, ensuring municipal compliance and proactively preparing for impacts.
• Strategic Initiatives
  :
  Contributes to corporate‑wide strategic initiatives and cross‑departmental projects as a member of the Senior Management Team.
• Policy Leadership
  :
  Leads the department on all Planning & Development policies, programs and services affecting the City to provide exceptional service to Council, Committees, the CAO, staff, and residents.
• Project Management
  :
  Coordinates and manages projects of major corporate significance, prepares reports, presents, and defends policy recommendations related to planning issues.
• Perf…