Director, Business Services

About the role

The Regional Municipality of Durham is seeking a strategic, collaborative leader to serve as Director of Business Services within the Social Services Department. Reporting to the Commissioner of Social Services, the Director will provide executive leadership for business affairs, financial management, administrative services and emergency social services, overseeing 79 staff and a budget exceeding $700 million.

Key responsibilities

• Lead long‑term financial planning, budget modernization and internal controls for a multi‑million‑dollar portfolio.
• Oversee administrative and emergency social services functions, ensuring service sustainability for vulnerable populations.
• Manage funding relationships with provincial and federal ministries and supervise major initiatives in affordable housing, childcare, homelessness and community investment.
• Advise senior leadership, Council and community stakeholders on complex financial, operational and policy matters.
• Foster a culture of accountability, innovation and continuous improvement across the department.

Required profile

• University degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Commerce, Economics or related field.
• Minimum 10 years of progressive leadership experience, including senior management in complex, multi‑stakeholder public‑sector environments.
• Demonstrated expertise in large‑scale budgeting, financial planning, risk management and organizational transformation.
• Strong communication and relationship‑building skills with elected officials, senior executives and community partners.
• Knowledge of municipal governance, budget processes, internal controls, emergency management and relevant legislative frameworks.