Director of Planning

Overview / Background

Cambridge is a thriving emerging and modern city with a diverse population of ,. It is located within the Regional Municipality of Waterloo and is a part of one of Ontario's fastest growing and economically prosperous regions. With its perfect position being located along Highway , only 45 minutes from the provincial capital of Toronto, Cambridge is well poised to continue to grow and flourish into a prosperous metropolis and one of the best places to live in the Province of Ontario.

Position / Responsibilities

As part of the Planning & Growth Department, the City of Cambridge is seeking an experienced and visionary leader to serve as Director of Planning. This pivotal role reports to the General Manager of Planning & Growth and provides strategic leadership to the Planning Services Division, aligning divisional priorities with the City’s broader strategic goals.

As Director, you will lead a talented and motivated team to direct the activities and operation of the Planning Services Division by aligning divisional policies, procedures and work plans with the corporate strategic plan. You will work closely citizens, developers, regulatory authorities, consultants and all levels of government to achieve the community’s goal of building a vibrant and growing City while respecting the City’s multitude of heritage assets.

You will be responsible for preparing and presenting the division’s operating and capital budget, and ensures adherence to the approved budget. As part of the City’s senior management team, you will participate in creating and providing a workplace environment which fosters continuous improvement.

Candidate Requirements

The ideal candidate will bring a collaborative and strategic leadership style, with proven experience guiding complex planning initiatives and motivating high-performing teams. They will possess excellent communication and problem-solving skills, and be able to navigate legislative requirements, budget oversight, and stakeholder engagement with confidence. A university degree in Planning, Geography, or a related field is required, along with a Registered Professional Planner designation. The role also demands 8–10 years of experience in development and long-range planning, including 5–7 years in a management or supervisory capacity.