Director, Legislative & Property Services

Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA); Toronto; On-site; CAD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

The Director, Legislative & Property Services at a leading conservation authority plays a strategic role in managing legal, property, and procurement functions. This position involves guiding a team, ensuring compliance with laws, and enhancing organizational efficiency. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in public administration, strong leadership skills, and a commitment to community engagement and environmental stewardship.

Qualifications

• Over 10 years of progressive legal and public administration leadership.
• At least 7 years in leadership roles within the public sector.

Responsibilities

• Manage TRCA's real estate portfolio and enhance portfolio management.
• Oversee legal risks and manage civil litigation and property transactions.
• Develop strategic plans for procurement and contracts.

Skills

Leadership

Negotiation

Communication

Analytical Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Education

University degree in Public Administration

Law (L.L.B or JD)

Job description

Since 1957, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA), enabled through the provincial Conservation Authorities Act, has taken action to enhance our region's natural environment and protect our land, water, and communities from flooding and extreme weather events—Ontario's leading cause of public emergencies. As the region's first line of defense against natural hazards, TRCA maintains vital infrastructure and provides programs and services that promote public health and safety, protecting people and property. TRCA employs a science-based approach to inform policy advice, leveraging its status as a not-for-profit within the public sector to achieve community and government impacts.

TRCA's commitment to innovation and excellence has earned it recognition as one of Greater Toronto's Top Employers, reflecting its dedication to fostering a workplace that empowers its team to deliver positive impacts.

THE OPPORTUNITY

The Director, Legislative & Property Services, plays a strategic leadership role within TRCA, offering guidance to divisions including Property and Asset Management, Legal and Risk Management, Procurement, and the Clerk's Office. Overseeing a team of 35, this role ensures the effective operation and strategic growth of these functions. It involves providing leadership, expert advice, and guidance to TRCA and municipalities within its watershed jurisdiction concerning land and infrastructure assets, including over 15,000 hectares of TRCA-managed lands.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Property and Asset Management

• Manage TRCA's real estate portfolio, including land disposition, acquisitions, rentals, and leases of owned and managed lands and assets.
• Enhance portfolio management through optimization in line with TRCA's strategic plans and best practices.
• Develop multi-year strategies, goals, policies, and procedures for property and asset management.

Legal and Risk Management

• Oversee and provide strategic legal advice across TRCA divisions.
• Manage legal risks and opportunities related to strategies and projects, ensuring compliance and effective execution.
• Supervise civil litigation, property transactions, and corporate legal matters, coordinating with internal and external counsel.
• Negotiate complex agreements, settlements, and contracts to protect TRCA interests.

Procurement and Contract Management

• Develop strategic plans for procurement and contracts.
• Lead procurement processes ensuring transparency and legislative compliance.
• Oversee large-scale infrastructure projects and property-related contracts.

Corporate Policy Management and Governance

• Oversee internal governance, Board, and Policy Committee matters.
• Manage TRCA's policy framework to ensure compliance and alignment with best practices.
• Stay informed on legislation affecting TRCA and implement necessary policies.

Talent Management and Resource Planning

• Provide leadership to four direct reports.
• Develop staff talent, mentor, and ensure performance and strategic alignment.
• Support workplace equity, succession planning, and resource allocation.

Strategic Planning

• Formulate and execute multi-year strategic plans aligned with TRCA's overarching goals.
• Manage risks and oversee budgeting, staffing, and organizational structure.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to standardize procedures and ensure compliance.

Advocacy and Stakeholder Relations

• Build relationships with government, industry, and community groups.
• Represent TRCA on external committees and influence policy development.
• Lead financial planning, budget management, and contract negotiations.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education

• University degree in Public Administration, Political Science, Business, Law (L.L.B or JD), from an accredited university.
• Membership in the Law Society of Ontario in good standing.

Experience

• Over 10 years of progressive legal and public administration leadership, managing multifaceted units.
• At least 7 years in leadership roles within the public sector, including board or council experience.
• Experience managing staff and external counsel on real estate and legal matters.
• Proven ability to present to boards and councils effectively.
• Deep knowledge of municipal, provincial, and federal laws affecting TRCA, including the Conservation Authorities Act.
• Strong analytical, negotiation, and communication skills, with the ability to interact with diverse stakeholders.
• Exceptional organizational and interpersonal skills, capable of managing multiple priorities.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and current resume to Lindsay Millard. For questions, please contact a member of the project team.