DIRECTOR HOUSING SECRETARIAT

Responsibilities : Develops, designs and implements functional systems-level housing policies and programs that make major changes in overall business performance based on long-term resident needs. Contributes to the continuous improvement of divisional performance through analysis and the development and implementation of sound management practices and procedures, provides program management staff with direction and guidance, processes and tools to increase efficiencies and improve effectiveness of the services provided by this section. Directs, through subordinate management staff, all activities of the section, delegating management responsibility. Leads and motivates a diverse workforce, ensures effective teamwork, ensures high standards of work quality and organizational performance, continuous learning and encourages innovation in others. Works collaboratively and in conjunction with the Corporate Employee Relations team when resolving employee relations issues. Leads input into the annual budget for the section, and ensures that the sections expenditures are controlled and maintained within approved budget limitations. Prepares work programs and deliverables to support and deliver key elements of the division's action plan. Provides strategic leadership on affordable housing issues such as housing development and improvements supporting Toronto's strategic, city-building goals; establishes partnerships with non-profit groups, members of Council, members of the public, other orders of government; and ensures effective intergovernmental relations and advocacy. Provides leadership working with local, provincial and national organizations on affordable housing advocacy. Provides strategic advice on the administration of multi-million dollar affordable housing program funding agreements to ensure funding recipients fulfill contract obligations. Prepares multi-year advocacy and funding plans for federal and provincial funding partners, tracks advocacy and funding progress and provides ongoing reporting to City administration. Provides strategic advice to other sections on housing providers to ensure program compliance and contractual obligations during construction and/or renovations. Directs affordable housing program activity in close consultation with other city divisions such as City Planning, TSSS, Legal Services, Municipal Licensing and Standards, Financial Planning and Corporate Real Estate Management. Maintains strong working relationships with affordable housing sector organizations and other housing and advocate stakeholders, demonstrating influencing and negotiating skills. Oversees process of obtaining relevant government approvals for organizations and individuals in receipt of affordable housing funding. Works closely with various stakeholders (e.g. CreateTO, Toronto Community Housing Corporation and Waterfront Toronto) in determining recommendations for strategic investments. Develops and maintains a strong media relations strategy to present the positive contribution of affordable housing. Responds promptly to media enquiries. Provides strategic advice, secretarial services and input for the city's campaign to secure federal/provincial funding to meet the repair needs of Toronto Community Housing and to deliver the division's action plan. Liaises with Mayor's office, and members of Council, on affordable housing matters. Provides strategic and planning advice to the Planning and Housing Committee and/or Council, including alternatives, options and recommendations, concerning the business. Promotes and reinforces compliance with all human resources, human rights, accessibility and financial policies and procedures. Leads the delivery of the housing program including initiatives that encourage community engagement, support local capacity building, and spur community investment and help to foster more resilient, thriving apartment communities. Makes recommendations and decisions in relation to either housing policy and strategy to deliver programs, initiatives and Council approved and directed action plans. Provides strategic advice into the development and implementation of programs which stimulate the development of affordable housing on surplus city land through working directly with internal and external stakeholders. Acts as an innovative leader to demonstrate commitment to identifying barriers in delivering the division's action plan and recommend strategic programs, policies and investments to address gaps and forges effective partnerships with various stakeholders. Oversees the assessment and reporting of the division's action plan outcomes against targets/metrics, and recommends corrective measures to the Senior Leadership Team and Council, as needed. Makes decisions that improve the overall effective use of resources and produce equitable results. Redesigns the structure and/or operations of the division or organization to better meet long-term objectives when appropriate. Promotes the use of innovation to produce affordable, financially viable, sustainable and equitable results. Leads team and is accountable for programs and deliverables to support and deliver key elements of the division's action plan including housing system and program policy. What you bring to the role: Key Qualifications: Post-secondary education in a discipline pertinent to the job function, or an approved equivalent combination of education and/or relevant experience. Extensive knowledge of housing issues and programs with working knowledge of the National Housing Act and other related policies. Extensive senior experience in the development and delivery of housing development, revitalisation and improvements in a Canadian context. Extensive experience in the development of new housing and maintaining existing homes with a focus on planning, construction/renovations, project oversight and financial analysis while balancing political, community and other stakeholder interests. Advanced strategic, analytical and conceptual thinking skills with the capacity to understand complex operating and policy issues, evaluation frameworks, performance measures, program inter-relationships and the potential consequences of intended policy action. Considerable experience initiating, leading and implementing proactive and progressive changes in an organization. Considerable experience leading, managing and motivating a diverse, multi-functional workforce. Knowledge of municipal governance structures, services and programs, and the municipal relationship to other levels of government, other funders and the community. Well-developed verbal and written communication skills with media relations skills and an ability to inspire and mobilize people. A high degree of political acumen, with demonstrated effectiveness in a politically oriented environment. Well-developed people management skills with proven success in achieving results through a unionized and nonunionized workforce. Sound knowledge of government legislation and policy in the areas of labour, occupational health and safety and human rights. Proven success as a discerning financial manager of large complex budgets requiring strict monitoring and compliance with external terms and conditions.