Executive Director, Municipal Licensing and Standards

Job Description

ABOUT TORONTO

Toronto isn’t just Canada’s largest city—it’s a world-class metropolis, a hub of culture and commerce, and one of the most diverse cities on the planet. Home to 2.9 million residents who speak more than 180 languages, Toronto is consistently ranked among the world’s most livable cities. As the fourth-largest government in Canada, the City delivers services that shape daily life—through public safety, transportation, libraries, parks, housing, and more. Toronto is a global leader in urban innovation, equity, and inclusion—and now, you can help shape its future.

THE OPPORTUNITY

The City of Toronto is searching for a visionary and strategic leader to become its next Executive Director of Municipal Licensing and Standards (MLS). This role sits at the heart of building safe, vibrant, and well-regulated communities.

This is not just about compliance—it’s about creating a modern, people-centred licensing and enforcement system that reflects the values of fairness, inclusion, and service excellence in one of the world’s most dynamic urban centres.

As Executive Director, you will oversee a division that:

• Drives Toronto’s economy through business licensing and permitting.
• Safeguards communities through fair and effective by-law enforcement.
• Provides compassionate care through animal services and sheltering.
• Shapes the future by modernizing regulations and policies to reflect emerging needs and realities.
• Delivers service excellence that residents, businesses, and stakeholders can count on.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

As a trusted senior leader in the City, you will:

• Set the vision: Define divisional priorities, goals, and standards that align with Council’s strategic direction.
• Lead innovation: Modernize policies, bylaws, and licensing frameworks through inclusive engagement and bold, forward-thinking approaches.
• Oversee critical operations: Ensure fair, consistent, and responsive enforcement of municipal by-laws across property standards, licensing, waste diversion, animal services, and parks.
• Drive accountability: Establish clear performance measures and foster a culture of continuous improvement.
• Engage and influence: Collaborate with Council, senior leaders, community stakeholders, and industry partners to deliver integrated solutions to complex urban challenges.
• Steward resources wisely: Manage budgets and strategic planning with an eye toward sustainability and innovation.
• Inspire people and culture: Lead a large, multidisciplinary team with empathy, inclusivity, and a commitment to staff growth and well-being.
• Be the face of MLS: Act as a trusted spokesperson, advisor, and ambassador with Council, media, and the public.

WHAT YOU BRING

The ideal candidate is a seasoned leader with deep experience in regulatory, licensing, or enforcement environments—ideally within municipal or public sector settings. You bring:

• A proven track record managing large, complex operations and teams.
• Political acuity and the ability to work effectively with elected officials, regulators, industry leaders, and the public.
• Exceptional communication and negotiation skills.
• A passion for civic leadership and a commitment to building safe, inclusive, and sustainable communities.
• A relevant post-secondary degree or equivalent combination of education and leadership experience.

If you are a strategic thinker, change leader, and passionate public servant ready to shape how Toronto delivers one of its most critical services, this is your opportunity to make a lasting impact.

EQUITY, DIVERSITY, AND INCLUSION

Toronto is one of the most multicultural cities in the world—and we are committed to building a workforce that reflects that. The City is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to equity, diversity, accessibility, and inclusion at all levels.

ACCESSIBILITY

We are committed to barrier-free recruitment and employment practices under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). Please let us know if you require any accommodations, and we will work with you to meet your needs.

HOW TO APPLY

To explore this exciting opportunity, please contact:

Patrick Rowan, Partner

Feldman Daxon Partners

E: prowan@feldmandaxon.com

T: 416-515-3302