Executive Director, Development Review Full Time NEW

Shape how one of North America’s fastest-growing cities builds its future.

Toronto is Canada’s largest city, the fourth largest city in North America, and one of the world’s most diverse, dynamic, and livable urban centres. Home to more than three million residents, Toronto is a global leader in technology, finance, culture, innovation, and climate action. Supported by a dedicated workforce of more than 42,000 employees and an annual operating budget of approximately $19 billion, the City plays a critical role in shaping the future of Canada’s economic, social, and cultural landscape.

As Toronto continues to experience unprecedented growth, the need to deliver housing, support economic development, and build complete, sustainable communities has never been more important. Every major development project, new neighbourhood, and housing initiative helps define the city’s future. At this pivotal moment, the City of Toronto is seeking an accomplished and relationship-driven executive to lead its Development Review Division.

Reporting to the Deputy City Manager, Development and Growth Services, and leading a total team of ~500, the Executive Director will lead the division responsible for reviewing and advancing development applications across the city. Operating at the intersection of planning, policy, politics, and community interests, you will help ensure growth aligns with the City’s long-term vision while balancing the needs of residents, stakeholders, and the development industry.

You will provide strategic leadership for development review processes, advise the Mayor’s Office, Council, and senior leadership on complex and often sensitive matters, and build strong partnerships across government, industry, and the community. The role will also oversee divisional operations, people, finances, and ongoing transformation initiatives aimed at improving service delivery and supporting the City’s ambitious housing and growth objectives.

The ideal candidate brings significant executive leadership experience in development, planning, housing, infrastructure, or a related field, ideally within a large and complex organization. You are known for your ability to lead change, navigate competing priorities, build consensus among diverse stakeholders, and deliver results through collaboration and influence. Strong political acuity, strategic thinking, policy expertise, and a commitment to developing high-performing teams will be essential to success. Experience in a unionized environment and a Professional Planner designation are considered assets.

This is a rare opportunity to influence how one of the world’s great cities evolves and to help shape Toronto’s next chapter of growth, housing delivery, and city-building.

To Apply
To fill this position, the City of Toronto has partnered with leadership advisory firm Odgers. Applications are encouraged immediately and should be submitted online ideally by October 16, 2026 at https://careers.odgers.com/en-ca/32161

We thank all those who express an interest, however only those chosen for further development will be contacted.

Odgers does not use artificial intelligence (AI) to screen, assess, or select applicants for a position.
Reason for Posting: Existing Vacancy

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
The City of Toronto is an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to creating a workplace culture of inclusiveness that reflects the diverse residents that we serve. Learn more about the City’s commitment to employment equity.

Accommodation
The City of Toronto is committed to creating an accessible and inclusive organization. We are committed to providing barrier-free and accessible employment practices in compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). Should you require Code-protected accommodation through any stage of the recruitment process, please make them known when contacted and we will work with you to meet your needs. Disability-related accommodation during the application process is available upon request. Learn more about the City’s Hiring Policies and Accommodation Process.