Our client is seeking a strategic, collaborative, and forward-thinking General Manager of Community Development to join their senior leadership team. This is an exciting opportunity for a proven leader to help shape the growth and sustainability of a thriving and fast-evolving community.
The General Manager will provide both strategic and operational leadership across a broad portfolio that currently includes Planning, Building Services, Environment, and Sustainability. Working as a key member of the Core Leadership Team, this individual will collaborate closely with peers across departments to advance the organization’s strategic objectives and ensure effective, community-focused service delivery.
The ideal candidate is a visionary leader who combines long-term strategic thinking with practical business acumen. They are known for their ability to inspire teams, foster innovation, and drive continuous improvement while maintaining a strong commitment to collaboration, integrity, and service excellence.
Key Responsibilities
Champion the organization’s values and contribute to a positive, inclusive, and high-performing workplace culture.
Provide strategic and operational leadership to the senior management team across Community Development, Sustainability, Real Estate, and Economic Development.
Serve as a primary liaison for external partnerships and organizations within the community, ensuring strong and effective collaboration.
Foster a culture of learning, professional growth, and empowerment across all levels of the department.
Lead the development of departmental capital and financial plans, and contribute to the organization’s long-term financial strategy in partnership with fellow senior leaders.
Establish and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including community groups, agencies, property owners, associations, and the public.
Pursue funding and partnership opportunities, including grants, procurement strategies, and innovative service delivery models.
Advance the organization’s goals for sustainability and responsible development, enhancing policies, standards, and operations to support long-term community well-being.
Attend Council and Committee meetings as required, providing strategic advice, recommendations, and guidance to support informed decision-making.
Qualifications:
Comprehensive understanding of local government legislation, policies, and bylaws affecting community development and related services.
Strong knowledge of provincial legislation influencing municipal operations and policy decisions.
Expertise in business management principles and modern public-sector leadership practices.
Proven ability to lead, inspire, and develop senior management teams in a complex organizational environment.
Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and negotiation skills with a collaborative and transparent leadership style.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and conflict resolution capabilities.
Skilled in implementing effective systems for managing workflow, priorities, and performance.
Demonstrated success in building and maintaining effective relationships with elected officials, First Nations, agencies, and community stakeholders.
Strong financial and budget management experience.
Capacity to manage a varied workload and deliver results under pressure while maintaining strategic focus.
Commitment to innovation, continuous improvement, and organizational excellence.
Education & Experience:
A degree in a related field (such as planning, public administration, business, or environmental studies).
7+ years of progressive senior leadership experience, ideally within a municipal or broader public-sector context.
Postgraduate education in management or leadership (MBA or equivalent) is considered an asset.
Or, an equivalent combination of education, training, and relevant experience.
Valid BC Class 5 Driver’s Licence.
We appreciate the time and effort all applicants invest in their submissions. Please note that only candidates shortlisted for this role will be contacted directly. However, your profile will remain under consideration for future opportunities that align with your experience and career goals. All qualified applicants will receive fair consideration for employment. We welcome individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities including those who identify as women, members of racialized groups, Indigenous Peoples, persons with disabilities, and 2SLGBTQIA+ communities. If you require an accommodation, please review our
accessibility policy and reach out to our accessibility officer with any questions. Our human recruiters review all applications and always make the final hiring decision. On occasion, we also use AI-assisted tools to help review applications.