Program Manager, Planning and Development Client Relations

Located on the Trent-Severn Waterway in the heart of the Kawartha tourism region, Peterborough is a unique community known for its exceptional quality of life and beautiful setting. Peterborough has it all – a multitude of recreational opportunities, a diverse industrial, commercial and agricultural base, quality health care and excellent schools – including two outstanding post-secondary institutions. Peterborough is just one hour from the Greater Toronto area.

Job Details

Are you energized by improving client experiences, streamlining development processes, and leading meaningful service improvements? 

The City of Peterborough is hiring a Program Manager, Planning and Development Client Relations, to lead critical coordination efforts within our Planning, Development and Urban Design Division.

In this key leadership role, you’ll oversee application intake, client engagement, and financial administration, acting as the main connection point between planning clients and internal City departments for priority development projects. Your work will ensure a responsive, transparent, and coordinated development approvals process.

You’ll also contribute to the City’s strategic planning goals by implementing development incentive programs, enhancing day-to-day service delivery, and driving ongoing process improvements.

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Leading the intake and coordination of development applications while supporting clients throughout the process.
• Strengthening client relationships through clear communication and cross-departmental collaboration.
• Provide customized support for priority developments to ensure an elevated customer experience and expedited approvals.
• Overseeing financial tracking and administration related to development incentives, ensuring compliance with corporate policies.
• Supporting budget preparation and monitoring financial performance tied to development projects.
• Supervising a team that supports application coordination and the Committee of Adjustment.
• Championing continuous improvements that increase efficiency and elevate client experience.

If you're an experienced leader who thrives in a collaborative environment and is committed to operational excellence, this is a fantastic opportunity to make an impact!

Qualifications

Education and Experience

• University degree in Urban Planning, Public Administration, Geography, Environmental Studies, Engineering, or a related discipline
• Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in municipal planning or development services
• Demonstrated leadership experience in a planning or development context
• Equivalent combinations of education and relevant experience may be considered
  
  

Legislative and Technical Knowledge

• Strong understanding of applicable legislation, including:
• Planning Act
• Condominium Act
• Development Charges Act
• Heritage Act
• Municipal Act
• Working knowledge of engineering principles and municipal design standards
• Experience using planning and development software, such as:
• AMANDA
• GIS platforms
• Microsoft Office Suite
  
  

Communication and Leadership Skills

• Proven ability to lead complex, and at times, contentious discussions with multiple stakeholders
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong negotiation, problem-solving, and stakeholder engagement abilities
• Advanced report writing skills, with experience preparing formal recommendations for Council and senior leadership
  
  

Financial and Administrative Expertise

• Demonstrated experience in:
• Budget preparation
• Financial tracking
• Oversight of administrative processes and workflows
  
  

Additional Requirements

• Valid Class “G” driver’s license
• Availability of attending evening meetings, as required
• Political acumen, tact, and diplomacy when working with applicants, agencies, and approval authorities
  
  

Assets

• Registered Professional Planner (RPP) designation
• Project Management certification or related credentials

Salary Range

$124,072 - $135,619

Application Information

Qualified applicants are invited to submit 1 file containing a résumé and cover letter (ensure your name is in the title of the document), quoting file number 25-P-86 on the file as well as in the subject line, no later than 4:30pm on August 11, 2025, to, recruiting@peterborough.ca 

The City of Peterborough is an organization that strives to embrace the spirit of inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility. We are an equal opportunity employer committed to building an inclusive and barrier-free environment in which all individuals have access to the City's goods, services and facilities. If contacted for an employment opportunity, please advise People & Culture if you require an accommodation.

The personal information submitted for employment is collected under the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act and will be used to determine eligibility for employment. We thank you for your application but advise that only those selected for an interview will be contacted.