Manager of Community Planning

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 environment 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.