Manager, HR Planning and Programs

District of Saanich; Victoria; On-site; CAD 138,000 - 163,000; Full time

Job summary

District of Saanich is seeking an experienced HR leader to join our team as Manager, HR Planning and Programs. Reporting to the Senior Manager of Human Resources, this role provides strategic leadership for a broad portfolio of people programs and advises senior leaders to ensure the District has the right people with the right skills.

The successful candidate will have 5–7 years of progressive HR experience, including leadership, and an undergraduate degree (master's asset).

Qualifications

• Undergraduate degree in a related discipline; master's considered an asset.
• 5-7 years of progressive HR experience, including leadership roles.
• Experience in strategic workforce planning, organizational development, HR program design, policy development, project leadership, and advising senior leaders.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for a broad portfolio of HR programs.
• Lead development and implementation of initiatives across workforce planning, talent acquisition, engagement, learning, accessibility, DEI, analytics, compensation, and change management.
• Partner with senior leaders to develop forward‑looking HR programs and policies and to deliver organizational outcomes.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Communication

Analytical skills

Stakeholder management

Change management

Education

Bachelor's degree in a related discipline

Master's degree (asset)

Job description

The Human Resources Division is committed to building an exceptional workplace where people can thrive. As a strategic partner to the organization, Human Resources provides leadership in attracting, developing, and supporting a talented workforce that delivers outstanding public service to the community. We are seeking an experienced human resources leader to join our team as Manager, HR Planning and Programs.

Reporting to the Senior Manager of Human Resources, the Manager, HR Planning and Programs provides strategic leadership for a broad portfolio of people programs that support the District's organizational priorities. This role leads the development and implementation of initiatives in areas including strategic workforce planning, talent acquisition, employee engagement, learning and development, accessibility, diversity, equity and inclusion, organizational effectiveness, workforce analytics, compensation, and change management. Working closely with senior leaders across the organization, the successful candidate will provide strategic advice, develop forward‑looking HR programs and policies, and help ensure the District has the right people, with the right skills, at the right time to meet evolving service delivery needs.

As a member of the Human Resources leadership team, you will lead and develop a high‑performing team while managing complex corporate initiatives that have organization‑wide impact. You will build collaborative relationships with internal and external stakeholders, provide guidance to leaders, prepare reports and presentations for senior leadership and Council, monitor emerging workforce trends, and champion innovative people strategies that strengthen employee engagement, inclusion, and organizational performance.

The ideal candidate will have an undergraduate degree in a related discipline (a master's degree is considered an asset) along with 5-7 years of progressive experience in human resources, including experience in leadership roles. Experience in strategic workforce planning, organizational development, HR program design, policy development, project leadership, and advising senior leaders is essential. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered. The successful candidate will demonstrate exceptional leadership, communication, analytical, and relationship‑building skills, along with the ability to influence, manage change, and deliver innovative people‑focused solutions in a complex public sector environment. Preference may be given to candidates with experience leading teams.

The successful candidate will normally work Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (35 hours per week). Flexible work arrangements may be available in accordance with the District's Flexible Workplace Policy and operational requirements. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

This is a permanent full‑time exempt position with an annual salary range of $138,165 - $162,575. The District of Saanich offers a competitive total compensation package, including comprehensive benefits, pension, paid vacation, and professional development opportunities, in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Exempt Employee Plan. Additional details, including the job description and competition information, are available at www.saanich.ca.

The District of Saanich is proud to once again be recognized as one of BC's Top Employers for 2026. As an inclusive, supportive, and high‑performing organization, we are committed to fostering a workplace that reflects the diversity of the community we serve. We aim to attract and retain passionate, skilled individuals from all backgrounds, demographics, and life experiences, and we are dedicated to creating an environment where everyone can contribute and thrive. If you require an accommodation at any stage of the recruitment process, please [e-mail] in confidence. We are here to support your full participation.