Manager, Local Government and Housing / Chef, Administrations locales et logement

Ontario Public Service; Northwestern Ontario; On-site; CAD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A provincial government department in Northwestern Ontario is looking for a Manager for Local Government and Housing. The role involves leading a team of professionals, managing complex municipal issues, and providing strategic support to 34 municipalities. The ideal candidate will excel in inclusive leadership, stakeholder management, and municipal governance knowledge. This position offers an opportunity to make a significant impact on local communities while enjoying competitive pay and benefits.

Benefits

Competitive pay

Pension and benefits

Career growth opportunities

Supportive and inclusive workplace

Qualifications

• Experience with municipal governance and operations.
• Legislative knowledge applicable to governance.
• Ability to engage diverse stakeholders effectively.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of five to deliver municipal advisory services.
• Manage municipal issues and provide solutions.
• Engage with stakeholders and foster collaboration.
• Support provincial policies through strategic options.

Skills

Inclusive Leadership

Coaching & Mentoring

Strategic Planning

Clear Communication

Political Acuity

Engagement Skills

Emotional Intelligence

Job description

Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing / Ministère des Affaires municipales et du Logement

Manager, Local Government and Housing / Chef, Administrations locales et logement

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 will work with 34 municipalities and three housing service managers to navigate complex issues, improve governance, and implement affordable housing programs.

About Us

The Municipal Services Office (MSO) provides operational guidance and capacity building for municipal and service manager clients to build strong communities and accountable local governments. The MSO anticipates regional issues, communicates key priorities, and helps municipalities access government programs.

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.
• A culture that supports you: Thrive in a flexible, inclusive, and respectful workplace that values your well‑being.
• A career that grows with you: Explore leadership opportunities with mentorship, learning, and mobility.
• Recognition for impact: Competitive pay, pension, benefits, and meaningful recognition.

About the Job

You will shape a team culture that sparks innovation, supports collaboration, and champions inclusion. You will help build a workplace that is diverse, anti‑racist, and accessible.

As a leader, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact by:

• Leading and inspiring a team of five seasoned professionals delivering municipal advisory services and housing programs.
• Managing complex municipal issues from financial challenges to governance concerns and providing clear recommendations.
• Engaging stakeholders across 34 municipalities and three housing service managers, building trust and collaboration.
• Supporting provincial priorities through policy advice and developing strategic options for decision‑makers.
• Driving cross‑ministry collaboration and expanding your influence across the Ontario Public Service.

Meet Your New Team

Our Thunder Bay office is a close‑knit group that values collaboration, community, and diversity. Staff are independent but thrive when a leader energizes and engages the team.

What You Bring to the Team

Leadership Skills

• Inclusive Leadership: Foster diversity, equity, and collaboration, creating a positive environment.
• Coaching & Mentoring: Inspire staff to reach their full potential.
• Strategic Planning: Lead multi‑year business and program plans with resource allocation.

Technical Expertise

• Municipal Governance Knowledge: Understand public administration principles and municipal operations.
• Legislative Expertise: Apply legislation such as the Municipal Act and Housing Services Act.
• Policy & Program Insight: Experience with provincial‑municipal relations, grants administration, and performance measurement.

Communication & Stakeholder Management

• Clear Communication: Connect with senior stakeholders and municipalities with clarity.
• Political Acuity: Resolve issues proactively and mediate disputes effectively.
• Engagement Skills: Consult and present, ensuring diverse perspectives are respected.
• Emotional Intelligence: Build trust and lead collaborative teams.

Missing Criteria?

If you are excited about this position and meet most of the listed qualifications, please still consider applying. We recognize that no applicant will hold every qualification.

Diversity, Inclusion & Accessibility

We are building an inclusive workforce that reflects the communities we serve. All individuals, including those with disabilities, Indigenous peoples, Black, and other racialized and marginalized groups, are encouraged to apply. The hiring process complies with Ontario’s Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act. Accommodations are available.

Additional Information

Address: 435 James St S, Thunder Bay, North Region

Posted on: December 24, 2025

Application Deadline: January 12, 2026, 11:59 pm EST.