Director of Development Services

Cip Icu; Esquimalt; On-site; CAD 156,000 - 178,000; Full time

Job summary

The Township of Esquimalt is seeking a Director of Development Services to lead planning, housing, land use and environmental initiatives. Reporting to the CAO, this role shapes growth, guides major development projects, and aligns council priorities with strategic long-term plans.

The successful candidate will bring municipal leadership experience, strong political acumen, and the ability to build productive relationships with residents, developers, Indigenous communities, and external partners

Qualifications

• Undergraduate and a related Post Graduate Degree in Planning, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of senior development services management or leadership experience in a municipal setting.
• Current and valid Class 5 BC diver’s licence; eligible for membership in the Canadian Institute of Planners.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and direction for the Development Services department, guiding city-building initiatives.
• Oversee housing, land use, growth management and environmental initiatives with a focus on long-term community outcomes.
• Advise on complex and sensitive planning matters and build relationships with residents, developers, Indigenous communities and external partners.

Skills

Leadership experience

Municipal planning knowledge

Community engagement

Education

Undergraduate and related Post Graduate Degree in Planning

Job description

Director of Development Services, Regular Full-Time

Competition No. 26- 48

Salary $156,220.64 – $177, 523.46

Internal/External Opportunity

EXEMPT from the Union

About our Community:

Located on the traditional territory of the lək̓ʷəŋən Peoples, the Township of Esquimalt acknowledges its neighbouring First Nations and is committed to building strong and enduring relationships with the Xwsepsum and Songhees First Nations.

The Township of Esquimalt, with a population of over 17,000, is recognized as a vibrant, distinct, resilient, and diverse community for people to discover, feel welcome and belong. The Township is home to Canada’s Pacific Navy and boasts extensive amenities including beautiful parks and beaches, scenic waterfront walkways as well as modern recreational facilities.

About our Organization:

With a high functioning, progressive Council and leadership team, and dedicated, engaged staff, the Township is an organization committed to working collaboratively to continue making Esquimalt one of the most desirable places to live, work and play.

The Township of Esquimalt is committed to integrating equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility into our programs, policies, spaces, and services. Our goal is to cultivate a diverse and inclusive workforce that reflects the community we serve and aim to become.

About the Opportunity:

Reporting to the Chief Administrative Officer, the Director of Development Services plays a pivotal role in shaping the community’s growth and helping bring corporate goals, organizational initiatives and Council’s priorities to life. We are excited to welcome an inspiring and forward-thinking leader who is passionate about city-building, community engagement, and creating places where people flourish.

From guiding transformative development projects to influencing long-term planning, housing, land use, and environmental initiatives, your leadership will have a visible and lasting impact on the lives of residents for generations to come. In return, you’ll join a highly engaged organization that values innovation, collaboration, and work-life balance, offering the opportunity to do meaningful work while enjoying the unique lifestyle and strong sense of community that make Esquimalt such a special place.

Our Preferred Candidate:

The ideal candidate will have the following qualifications and experience:

• Undergraduate and a related Post Graduate Degree in Planning, or a related discipline;
• Minimum of 7 years of senior development services management or leadership experience working in a municipal setting;
• Current and valid Class 5 BC diver’s licence; and,
• Eligible for membership in the Canadian Institute of Planners.
• An equivalent combination of education, training and experience may be considered.

They will also bring their extensive knowledge of community planning, growth management and municipal planning when providing strategic leadership and direction for the Development Services department. Accompanied with a strong political acumen and ability to advise on complex and sensitive planning matters, they will be able to effectively build and navigate relationships with residents, developers, community organizations, government agencies, Indigenous communities, and external partners to support collaborative decision-making and successful project outcomes.