Chief Planner and Director of Planning

About the City of Hamilton

The City of Hamilton is a dynamic and rapidly evolving urban centre, recognized for its commitment to sustainable growth, innovative city-building, and vibrant communities. As Chief Planner and Director of Planning, you will contribute to an organization that values progressive planning, responsible development, and the preservation of natural assets such as its extensive waterfront and green spaces.

Hamilton's diverse neighborhoods, ambitious infrastructure projects, and focus on inclusive, forward-thinking urban design make it an exciting environment for planning professionals who want to shape the future of one of Canada's most unique cities.

About the Role

Reporting to the General Manager of Planning and Economic Development, the Chief Planner and Director of Planning provides visionary leadership to a diverse team delivering high-quality planning services to the public and the development community. This role sets ambitious divisional goals, drives continuous improvement including streamlining the development process, and champions positive outcomes in city building. Accountable for strategic policy recommendations and resource management, the Chief Planner and Director of Planning evaluates performance against benchmarks, implements innovative strategies, and fosters a culture of excellence, integrity, and collaboration aligned with the values of the City of Hamilton. In effect, the Chief Planner and Director of Planning will be a values-based leader who excels in driving results through teamwork, collaboration and a laser focus on results. As a key member of the Departmental Management Team, this leader exemplifies "Leadership: The Hamilton Way" through strong communication, empowerment, and a commitment to positive outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

Responsibilities will encompass the following jurisdictions:

• Community Planning and Geographic Information Systems
• Urban Design
• Community Development
• Cultural Heritage and Natural Heritage Planning
• Development Planning
• Zoning By-law Reform, By-Law Administration and Interpretation
• Business/Development Facilitation

Strategic Leadership & Program Delivery

• Lead the Planning Division and oversee Development and Community Planning Programs to meet the evolving needs of Hamilton's residents and businesses.
• Set divisional goals, recommend policies, and ensure alignment with City and Provincial guidelines.

Operational Excellence & Resource Management

• Develop and manage the Division's annual capital and operating budgets, ensuring effective use of financial and staff resources.
• Implement best practices and customer service improvements for efficient, high-quality service delivery.
• Work across City departments and divisions with a solutions-based perspective to address and unlock development opportunities

Planning & Development Oversight

• Direct key planning functions including community planning, urban design, development approvals, zoning reform, and development/business facilitation.
• Provide professional advice and reports to Council, committees, and stakeholders on planning initiatives and development applications.
• Work closely with the development community to foster positive planning outcomes for the City.

Team Leadership & Corporate Collaboration

• Build, mentor, and coach a high-performing management team, establish work priorities, and support staff development.
• Represent the Division on corporate committees, contributing strategic advice to attract investment, support growth, and enhance Hamilton's business environment.

Qualifications

• Advanced knowledge of urban and regional planning, municipal administration, and relevant legislation, supported by a graduate degree and senior management experience.
• Full professional membership in the Canadian Institute of Planners (MCIP) and Registered Professional Planner (RPP) designation.
• Proven leadership, strategic visioning, negotiation, and communication skills, with a track record of managing multidisciplinary teams, working across teams and delivering customer-focused services.

To apply for this key role, submit your application to Phelps by clicking "Apply Now" below.

Application deadline: Friday, December 12, 2025