Manager, Local Government and Housing

Ontario Public Service Leadership | Leadership dans la fonction publique de l’Ontario; Northwestern Ontario; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A governmental service organization in Northwestern Ontario seeks a dynamic leader to guide a team responsible for municipal advisory services and housing programs. The ideal candidate will engage with stakeholders across 34 municipalities, manage complex governance issues, and drive cross-ministry collaboration. This role requires expertise in municipal operations, legislative application, and strategic planning, all aimed at making real community impacts. Competitive compensation and benefits are offered, supporting your well-being and recognition for contributions.

Benefits

Defined-benefit pension

Benefits supporting well-being

Mentorship and learning opportunities

Qualifications

• Ability to lead a team of professionals delivering municipal advisory services.
• Expertise in managing complex municipal issues.
• Knowledge of public administration principles and municipal operations.

Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire a team of five delivering municipal advisory services.
• Engage stakeholders across municipalities and service managers.
• Drive collaboration across ministries and provide policy recommendations.

Skills

Inclusive Leadership

Coaching & Mentoring

Strategic Planning

Clear Communication

Political Acuity

Engagement Skills

Emotional Intelligence

Education

Municipal Governance Knowledge

Legislative Expertise

Policy & Program Insight

Job description

Lead Change. Build Communities. Make an Impact.

Are you ready to help shape the future of local government and housing in Northwestern Ontario? This is your chance to lead a talented team, strengthen municipal partnerships, and deliver programs that make a real difference in communities across the region. You'll work with 34 municipalities and three housing service managers across Northwestern Ontario, to navigate complex issues, improve governance, and implement affordable housing programs.

We are seeking a dynamic leader who brings energy and engagement to a small, experienced team. Someone who can balance strategic thinking with hands-on problem-solving, build strong relationships with municipal stakeholders, and manage complex issues with confidence. If you're collaborative, have political acuity, and are passionate about community impact, this role is for you.

About Us

The Municipal Services Office (MSO) provides ongoing operational guidance and capacity building for municipal and service manager clients with the aim of building strong communities and developing accountable local governments. The MSO responds to and anticipates regional issues and trends of provincial interest, communicates key government priorities to municipal stakeholders, and assists municipalities and service managers to access government programs and to capitalize on best practices in municipal finance, administration and housing.

The Ontario Public Service: Strengthening Ontario, Together.

A career in the Ontario Public Service (OPS) is driven by purpose. We're building a stronger Ontario by delivering programs and services that make a real difference in people's lives. If you share this ambition, you'll find a workplace that reflects the diversity of the people we serve and empowers you to lead with confidence.

Why Your Leadership Belongs Here

• Purpose that drives you: Lead work that matters. Your leadership will shape policies, programs, and services that improve lives across the province—every day.
• A culture that supports you: Thrive in a flexible, inclusive, and respectful workplace that values your well-being and empowers you to bring your whole self to work.
• A career that grows with you: Explore leadership opportunities across ministries and sectors. With access to mentorship, learning, and mobility, your career can evolve here.
• Recognition that reflects your impact: We value the difference you make. You'll receive competitive pay, a defined-benefit pension, and benefits that support your well-being—plus meaningful recognition for your contributions.

About the job

We believe great leadership starts with high standards and strong support. In the OPS, that means showing up with authenticity, acting with integrity, and having the courage to do what's right, even when it's hard.

As a leader, you'll shape a team culture that sparks innovation, supports collaboration, and champions inclusion. You'll help build a workplace that is diverse, anti-racist, and accessible, where everyone feels safe, respected, and able to thrive.

You won't be doing it alone. We invest in our leaders through mentorship, learning opportunities, and cross-ministry networks that help you grow your impact and connect with peers across the organization.

Leadership is about impact, and in this role, you'll have the opportunity to make a meaningful one. You will:

• Lead and inspire a team of five seasoned professionals delivering municipal advisory services and housing programs.
• Manage complex municipal issues from financial challenges to governance concerns and provide clear recommendations.
• Engage stakeholders across 34 municipalities and three housing service managers, building trust and collaboration.
• Support provincial priorities through the provision of policy advice with a regional lens and developing strategic options for decision-makers.
• Drive cross-ministry collaboration, expanding your network and influence across the OPS.

Meet Your New Team

Our Thunder Bay office is a close-knit group of experienced professionals who value collaboration, community and diversity. The team enjoys a collegial atmosphere that keeps connections strong. While everyone is highly skilled and independent in their work, they thrive when a leader brings energy and fosters engagement. This is a team that appreciates open communication, mutual support, and a positive work environment where ideas are welcomed and contributions are recognized.

What you bring to the team

Leadership Skills

• Inclusive Leadership: You lead by example, foster diversity, equity, and collaboration, and create a positive team environment.
• Coaching & Mentoring: You inspire staff to reach their full potential through ongoing support and developments.
• Strategic Planning: You can lead multi-year business and program plans, including resource allocation to deliver on commitments.

Technical Expertise

• Municipal Governance Knowledge: You understand public administration principles and municipal operations, including financial, administrative, and housing systems.
• Legislative Expertise: You can interpret and apply legislation such as the Municipal Act, Housing Services Act, and related regulations.
• Policy & Program Insight: You have experience with provincial-municipal relations, grants administration, and performance measurement.

Communication & Stakeholder Management

• Clear Communication: You connect with senior stakeholders and municipalities with clarity and enthusiasm
• Political Acuity: You manage issues proactively, resolve problems, and mediate disputes effectively.
• Engagement Skills: You excel at consultation and presentation, ensuring diverse perspectives are respected.
• Emotional Intelligence: You build trust and lead collaborative, productive teams and partnerships.

Apply by: Monday, January 12, 2026 11:59 pm EST