Chief Planner
City of Hamilton
About the City of Hamilton
The City of Hamilton is a dynamic and rapidly evolving urban centre, recognized for its commitment to sustainable growth, innovative city-building, and vibrant communities. As Chief Planner, you will contribute to an organization that values progressive planning, responsible development, and the preservation of natural assets such as its extensive waterfront and green spaces.
Hamilton’s diverse neighborhoods, ambitious infrastructure projects, and focus on inclusive, forward-thinking urban design make it an exciting environment for planning professionals who want to shape the future of one of Canada’s most unique cities.
About the Role
Reporting to the General Manager of Planning and Economic Development, the Chief Planner provides visionary leadership to a diverse team delivering high-quality planning services to the public and the development community. This role sets ambitious divisional goals, drives continuous improvement including streamlining the development process, and champions positive outcomes in city building. Accountable for strategic policy recommendations and resource management, the Chief Planner evaluates performance against benchmarks, implements innovative strategies, and fosters a culture of excellence, integrity, and collaboration aligned with the values of the City of Hamilton. In effect, the Chief Planner will be a values-based leader who excels in driving results through teamwork, collaboration and a laser focus on results. As a key member of the Departmental Management Team, this leader exemplifies “Leadership: The Hamilton Way” through strong communication, empowerment, and a commitment to positive outcomes.
Key Responsibilities
Responsibilities will encompass the following jurisdictions:
- Community Planning and Geographic Information Systems
- Urban Design
- Community Development
- Cultural Heritage and Natural Heritage Planning
- Development Planning
- Zoning By-law Reform, By-Law Administration and Interpretation
- Business/Development Facilitation
Strategic Leadership & Program Delivery
- Lead the Planning Division and oversee Development and Community Planning Programs to meet the evolving needs of Hamilton’s residents and businesses.
- Set divisional goals, recommend policies, and ensure alignment with City and Provincial guidelines.
Operational Excellence & Resource Management
- Develop and manage the Division’s annual capital and operating budgets, ensuring effective use of financial and staff resources.
- Implement best practices and customer service improvements for efficient, high-quality service delivery.
- Work across City departments and divisions with a solutions-based perspective to address and unlock development opportunities.
Planning & Development Oversight
- Direct key planning functions including community planning, urban design, development approvals, zoning reform, and development/business facilitation.
- Provide professional advice and reports to Council, committees, and stakeholders on planning initiatives and development applications.
- Work closely with the development community to foster positive planning outcomes for the City.
Team Leadership & Corporate Collaboration
- Build,mentor, and coach a high-performing management team, establish work priorities, and support staff development.
- Represent the Division on corporate committees, contributing strategic advice to attract investment, support growth, and enhance Hamilton’s business environment.
Qualifications
- Advanced knowledge of urban and regional planning, municipal administration, and relevant legislation, supported by a graduate degree and senior management experience.
- Full professional membership in the Canadian Institute of Planners (MCIP) and Registered Professional Planner (RPP) designation.
- Proven leadership, strategic visioning, negotiation, and communication skills, with a track record of managing multidisciplinary teams, working across teams and delivering customer-focused services.
To apply for this key role, submit your application to Phelps by clicking: https://rebrand.ly/85nbbo4
Application deadline: Friday, December 12, 2025
To learn more information, visit our website at https://phelpsgroup.ca/
Disclaimer:
Be advised that Human Resources frequently audits resumes of internal/external applicants to ensure/validate information provided is consistent and trustworthy. Falsification of information provided at any time throughout the recruitment process may be grounds for disqualification, and for internal applicants, subject to discipline up to and including termination.
Terms:
The City is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and selection processes. Consistent with our Values and Corporate Culture Pillars, the City of Hamilton is committed to providing equitable treatment to all with respect to barrier-free employment and accommodation without discrimination. The City will provide accommodation for applicants in all aspects of the hiring process, up to the point of undue hardship. If you have an accommodation need, please contact Human Resources as soon as possible to make appropriate arrangements.