District of Summerland

Nestled in the heart of the Okanagan Valley, Summerland is a picturesque community with a population of approximately 11,600 residents. The District of Summerland boasts a small town atmosphere, beautiful outdoor environment and a great quality of life. Residents enjoy easy access to spectacular beaches and parks, scenic biking and hiking trails, beautiful orchards and vineyards, and the many wide-open spaces.

The District of Summerland is seeking a self motivated, forward thinking professional to fill the role of Director of Development Services. Managing approximately 8 employees and reporting to the Chief Administrative Officer, the Director is responsible for leadership, partnership development, overall management, and operation of five key areas within the District:

• Planning & Land Use
• Building & Permitting
• Development Engineering
• Business Licencing
• Bylaw Services

The incumbent is responsible for the effective delivery of outstanding service to residents, businesses, and the development community in a role that assists in strengthening the local economy. This position also holds the statutory position of Approving Officer. The Director will take on projects related to community development and is responsible for coordinating updates of new and existing community, neighbourhood and other related policy plans.

This opportunity calls for a flexible, organized and results-oriented professional with strong customer service, communication, and people skills. The incumbent will have an in-depth understanding of community planning principles, practices, techniques and methods, municipal planning trends and be well experienced in public engagement. The Director must work well in a team environment and be able to build and maintain positive relationships with internal and external stakeholders. The ability to prepare and present reports with a high level of professionalism and attention to detail is critical.

A key part of this role will be to implement processes and new application tracking systems to create efficiencies within the department.

The ideal candidate will have a degree in Planning or another related field in the development industry with a minimum of five years in a related senior management role. Experience in both the private and public sector is considered an asset for this role. Thorough knowledge of community and land use planning principles, BC Building Code, applicable bylaws and regulations, as well as the Local Government Act and Community Charter is required. The successful candidate must have a valid BC Driver’s license and have proven leadership and mentoring skills.