Counsel/Senior Counsel, Development, Infrastructure and Contract Law

ABOUT US

Almost 1.2 million residents call York Region home, making it one of the largest regions in Canada – and the fastest growing with a population that’s expected to grow to more than 2 million by 2041. Our geography, which is comprised of about 1,800 square kilometers over nine different municipalities, is as beautiful, interesting and diverse as our people. Local government is organized in a two-tier structure and we work together with our local municipalities to provide residents and businesses access to a broad selection of services and resources.

WHAT WE OFFER

Consistently named one of Canada’s Best Employers by Forbes, we offer a collaborative, progressive workplace that takes pride in our organizational culture and is committed to living The 13 Factors of Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace – aligned with our vision to create strong, caring and safe communities both within and outside our walls.

• Defined Benefit Pension Program - With the Ontario Municipality Employees Retirement System (OMERS) defined benefit pension plan, you can confidently retire knowing that you will have income for life. Eligibility from date of hire as a full-time employee and includes employer-matched contributions.
• Employer of Choice - Recognized as the highest-ranking government employer in Canada and fourth overall among 300 organizations.
• Benefits and Wellness - Employees and their loved ones have access to a comprehensive employer-paid benefits plan that includes extended health, dental and life insurance, access to a 24/7 Employee and Family Assistance Program and corporate discounts and purchase plans for day-to-day products and services.
• Inclusive and Diverse Workforce - We’re committed to fostering an environment that celebrates all dimensions of diversity and ensures everyone can develop to their full potential, participate freely in society and live with respect, dignity and freedom from discrimination. Our robust Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility program continues to grow, and has been recognized by the United Nations and many other organizations for our leadership.

WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING

• Represents Regional interests in strategic planning and delivery of Regional services and infrastructure, including development and development charges, planning, construction, governance, municipal administration, and financing.
• Provides advice to  Regional departments, corporations, related entities  and the Police Services Board on a variety of legal issues including commercial, contractual, corporate governance and jurisdictional issues, legislation, regulation and policies.
• Represents the Region, boards and corporations, in negotiations and dispute resolution, including appearances before administrative tribunals and courts
• Prepares Committee and Council Reports and advises Senior Management on legal implications of departmental initiatives.
• Evaluates claims, identifies available legal options and assists in developing risk management strategies.
• Supervises staff, including recruitment, selection, hiring, assigning work, determining training and development needs, conducting performance appraisals.
• Evaluates performance of staff for compliance with established Regional policies and objectives and contributions in attaining objectives.
• Retains and instructs external counsel, consultants and other professional advisors.
• Manages relationships with external stakeholders, Regional and local municipal Councils, municipal staff, external government and non-governmental agencies, and the communities served.

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR

• Successful completion of a University Degree in Law (L.L.B.) or Juris Doctor Degree (J.D.).
• Membership in good standing as a Lawyer in the Law Society of Ontario.
• Counsel: Minimum of seven (7) years experience providing a broad range of legal services in the area of Development Law, Contract Law, Environmental Law, and/or Municipal Law including appearances before the Ontario Land Tribunal and the negotiation of servicing agreements, site plan approvals and development charge agreements.
• Senior Counsel: Minimum of ten (10) years experience providing a broad range of legal services in the area of Development Law, Contract Law, Environmental Law, and/or Municipal Law including appearances before the Ontario Land Tribunal and the negotiation of servicing agreements, site plan approvals and development charge agreements.
• Expert knowledge of legislation, guidelines, procedures, standards applicable to the practice area including the Municipal Act, 2001, Planning Act, Development Charges Act, 1997 and various provincial Orders and Regulations, and a complete understanding of the Regional governmental structure.
• Knowledge of current developments in the law and their application to Regional responsibilities, with a particular expertise in Development Law.
• Knowledge of and demonstrated ability in corporate core competencies including customer service, communication, team work, initiative/self-management, leadership/management, accountability, and flexibility/self-management.
• Management competencies including results/achievement focus, human resources management, leadership, financial management, business planning, decision making/judgement, representation and professionalism and job knowledge.
• Demonstrated knowledge and application of financial budget and business planning processes.
• Knowledge of and demonstrated ability in strategic planning, change management design, process and implementation strategies to optimize both quality and cost-effectiveness of delivery of its areas of business.
• Computer literacy utilizing MS Office software and internet applications.
• Proven analytical and decision making skills.
• Ability to exercise appropriate judgement and discretion in dealing with privileged or controversial matters.
• Demonstrated political acumen and ability to negotiate, facilitate, mediate, and present information to a varied audience.
• Ability to work outside regular business hours as required.

Please apply online by 5:00PM EST of the closing date indicated above. We thank all candidates for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted via email.