Executive Director, Development Review

About the role

The City of Toronto is seeking an accomplished executive to lead its Development Review Division. Reporting to the Deputy City Manager, Development and Growth Services, you will guide a team of roughly 500 professionals responsible for reviewing and advancing development applications across the city.

Key responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for development review processes and ensure alignment with the city’s long‑term vision.
• Advise the Mayor’s Office, City Council and senior leadership on complex, often sensitive development matters.
• Build and maintain strong partnerships with government agencies, industry stakeholders and community groups.
• Oversee divisional operations, including people management, financial stewardship and transformation initiatives aimed at improving service delivery.
• Drive the city’s housing and growth objectives while balancing the needs of residents, developers and other stakeholders.

Required profile

• Significant executive leadership experience in development, planning, housing, infrastructure or a related field, preferably within a large, complex organization.
• Proven ability to lead change, navigate competing priorities and build consensus among diverse stakeholders.
• Strong political acumen, strategic thinking and policy expertise.
• Commitment to developing high‑performing teams.
• Experience in a unionized environment and a Professional Planner designation are considered assets.

Required skills