At VIA HFR, we are re-imagining passenger rail service on behalf of the Government of Canada! Our goal is to create a new sustainable train network that that will run faster, more often and will be more reliable between Toronto and Québec City. The HFR project is Canada's largest infrastructure project in generations.
Are you ready to take on a stimulating and impactful challenge? Look no further: VIA HFR is looking for a Director, Real Property Acquisitions & Rights of Way. We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Director to secure the necessary Real Property & Rights of Way for the HFR Project.
The role
Reporting to the Vice President, Planning & Land Acquisitions, the ideal candidate will have a strong background in land acquisition, right of way management, or real estate development, exceptional analytical and collaboration abilities, ensuring the successful execution and delivery of the project within scope, budget and schedule.
The responsibilities
- Implement the land acquisition strategy to secure in due time the necessary land and right of way for the HFR project, considering legal, environmental, and community factors.
- Manage right-of-way issues, and coordinate with legal and surveying teams.
- Communicate with landowners and relevant authorities, addressing concerns and fostering positive relationships to support the successful acquisition of land and right of way.
- Negotiate land purchases, easements, leases, and other property interests with landowners, developers, and governmental entities.
- Initiate the expropriation process wherever required and interface with Public Services and Procurement Canada during execution.
- Oversee the appraisal, valuation, and compensation processes for land acquisition.
- Maintain thorough records of all transactions.
- Collaborate with project managers, engineers, legal teams, and external consultants to align land acquisition activities with project timelines and budgets.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for landowners, community groups, and public agencies regarding land acquisition and right of way issues.
- Address and resolve any disputes or challenges related to land acquisition and property management.
- Develop and manage budgets related to land acquisition and right of way procurement.
- Ensure cost-effective acquisition strategies and adherence to financial constraints.
- Collaborate with the Private Development Partner, government agencies, community stakeholders, and engineering teams. Foster positive relationships throughout the project lifecycle.
- Prepare progress reports, technical documentation, and presentations for project stakeholders, including executive leadership, and regulatory authorities.
- Manage the real estate assets.
The requirements
- Bachelor's degree in real estate, urban planning, civil engineering, business administration, law or a related field (advanced degree preferred).
- Minimum of 10 years of experience in a Land & Right of Way acquisition role.
- Extensive experience in land acquisition, right of way management, or real estate development, preferably within large infrastructure or transportation projects.
- Strong knowledge of property laws, eminent domain processes, and regulatory requirements related to land acquisition.
- Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Excellent leadership and collaboration skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate teams to achieve project goals and objectives.
- Ability to analyze financial data and manage budgets effectively.
- Proficiency in relevant software and tools (e.g., GIS, project management software).
- Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate effectively at all levels of the organization.
- Being fluent in both Canadian official languages is desirable.
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities, with a focus on innovation, creativity, and continuous improvement.
- Ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Why join our innovative team?
- Group insurance that is fully paid for you and your family, including medical, dental, life, disability, etc.
- A pension plan and saving options (RRSP and TFSA)
- Flexible benefits: access to wellness and health accounts to support your lifestyle
- Vacation based on experience, available as soon as you're hired
- Incentive bonus program
- Work in flexible hybrid mode
- A work environment that encourages initiative, innovation and forward-thinking solutions
- A unique opportunity to craft the future of transportation in Canada
We strive to create strong and diverse teams
At VIA HFR, we believe in the strength of diverse teams. We aspire to offer an inclusive and equitable work environment where everyone can develop and flourish. We therefore invite all qualified individuals, regardless of their identity or differences, to apply. You can learn more about the whole project on our VIA HFR webpage.
Please let us know if you require any accommodation during the recruitment process. We will do our utmost to provide you with a fair and pleasant experience, while keeping any accommodation confidential.
Please note that only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.