Director of Community Services

Director of Community Services – City of Welland Join to apply for the Director of Community Services role at City of Welland . We are looking for a strategic thinker, norm breaker, and passionate civil servant to oversee our Community Services Department. Overview The Director of Community Services is an executive leadership position reporting to the Chief Administrative Officer. The role oversees multiple divisions including Recreation, Sport and Culture, Parks, Forestry and Cemeteries, and Facilities (city‑wide). The position serves as the primary connection to community‑based organizations such as the Welland Museum, Library and Youngs Sportsplex, and collaborates with various community‑based service agencies. Responsibilities Maintain effective working relationships and act as a resource for City Council, related boards and committees, and relevant departments. Attend Council meetings and prepare reports for Council and any committee meetings related to the Community Services Department. Actively participate in Corporate Leadership Team meetings and activities. Prepare and administer the annual departmental operating and capital budgets within approved limits. Develop and recommend short‑ and long‑term departmental plans to ensure service delivery meets regulatory requirements and internal quality control standards. Develop, recommend, coordinate, and administer strategic department policies, procedures, and standards specific to the division/service areas within the Department. Ensure information to the community regarding the policies and practices of the Department is current. Maintain technical, statistical, and other pertinent data required by law and useful in planning and evaluating departmental functions. Coordinate research and oversee the completion and submission of external grant/funding opportunities for the City within the areas of responsibility. Ensure that cash, receipts, billings, grants, etc. are collected/received and accounted for in accordance with procedures and controls specified by the City Treasurer. Direct the operation and maintenance of the City’s recreational and park facilities to meet optimum goals and standards. Direct the operation and maintenance of the City’s residential and non‑residential facilities to meet optimum goals and standards. Develop and implement short‑ and long‑term business plans for parks, recreation, and programming activities and events. Conduct surveys, analyses, and make recommendations on the recreational needs and interests of the Community, including additional facilities and programs. Liaise with various community groups, agencies or individuals that provide or propose to provide parks and/or recreation facilities in and for the Community. Ensure the development and implementation of recreation programs approved and/or sponsored by Council. Ensure an adequate level of service is provided to the City through Community Services Programs. Establish and maintain an environment oriented to trust, open communication, creative thinking, and cohesive team effort, including coaching, mentoring, and training. Ensure operations and practices are consistent with the terms of any Collective Agreement and/or By‑Law and that the administration of such agreement and/or By‑Law is carried out. Other duties as assigned. Supervision Executive Assistant Manager of Parks, Forestry and Cemeteries, Operations and Development Manager of Business and Community Services Manager of Facilities, Operations, and Development Qualifications A University Degree, preferably in Recreation and Leisure or a related discipline. A Parks and Recreation Management Certificate or other recreation and culture equivalent is an asset. A minimum of ten (10) years of progressive experience at a management level, preferably in a municipal environment with direct program and operational experience. Knowledge in Project Management, Change Management, Continuous Improvement, and Business Processes. Professional membership in good standing with Parks and Recreation Ontario or Ontario Recreation Facilities Association or similar is an asset. Demonstrated experience in public administration, business or recreation facilities management, contract administration and project management. Working knowledge of applicable recreation and culture legislation and regulations, including AODA; Municipal Act; Occupational Health and Safety Act; Ministry of Tourism and Recreation Act; Ministry of Labour and Ministry of Heritage; Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries regulations. Demonstrated ability to review, analyze and make recommendations regarding recreation and culture programs, facilities and services which involves consideration of technical issues and political sensitivities. Ability to promote a culture of respect and responsiveness to community, sports organizations, special events and cultural stakeholders. Excellent interpersonal, organizational, analytical, report‑writing, communication, presentation, negotiation, problem solving, leadership and supervisory skills. Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and thorough knowledge of Recreation and Special Events software. Availability to attend evening/weekend meetings and accommodate deadlines or peak period workloads that may extend beyond designated normal workday hours or normal hours per week. Ability to work a variety of shifts and be available for call‑ins as required. Available to work flexible hours including evenings and weekends. Benefits OMERS Pension : Secure your future with an OMERS pension, one of Canada’s largest defined benefit pension plans. Learn more . Five Wellness Days : We understand the importance of mental and physical wellbeing. Five wellness days can be taken in succession, giving you the opportunity to recharge, rejuvenate and prioritize self‑care. Adaptable and Generous Benefits Package : Your health and happiness matter to us. From medical and dental coverage to additional perks, we’ve got you covered. Flexible Work Arrangements : Hybrid, condensed work weeks, and flexible schedules allow you to tailor your work environment to suit your needs. Fair‑market Value Salary : Our recent compensation review ensures pay aligns with market values and fairly reflects our team’s skills and contributions. How to Apply Submit a current application which includes a cover letter and resume. Apply by visiting City of Welland Careers . Seniority Level Executive Employment Type Full‑time Job Function Other Industries Government Administration #J-18808-Ljbffr