Job Description
Who we areThe Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) has an international reputation for excellence in managing the natural resources of the largest inland river system in southern Ontario. Our team is made up of committed and passionate experts in their fields, including scientists, engineers, researchers, educators, stewards, planners, foresters, recreation experts and much more. Every day, we come to work to improve the health of the natural environment of the Grand River watershed for those who call it home or come to visit. We are a progressive team, dedicated to lifelong learning, collaboration and making a positive impact.Who you areYou want to be part of an organization with an environmental goal. You want the work you do to make a difference. You like a team environment where everyone has an opportunity to contribute to achieve a shared goal, no matter their background or level of education and experience. You like problem solving, expanding your horizons and making even the smallest positive impact for your community and the planet.Why work for usAt the GRCA, we don’t just talk about work-life balance, we promote and encourage it. We offer flexible work hours and a one day a week working from home, as well as, wellness initiatives like onsite yoga and an Employee Assistance Program. Our team feels a connection to their work, each other and the community we serve, and when you’re “at the office”, you won’t feel like you’re “at the office.” Our Administration Centre is located in a tucked away, natural oasis next to the Shade’s Mills reservoir, where a walk or lunch at the picnic tables provides the opportunity to be immersed in nature.We offer staff development plans and open doors to help advance your career. And our employees benefit from being part of the Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System (OMERS), with 100% matching contributions from GRCA.Overview of the OpportunityReporting to the Chief Administrative Officer, the Manager of Conservation Lands is responsible for the oversight and guidance of management activities for all the of Grand River Conservation Authority’s land holdings. This includes supervising and coordinating the activities of the department, managing the acquisition/disposition processes for land holdings, administration of leases, licenses and management agreements, and overseeing the natural heritage and restoration programs on Authority-owned properties.What You’ll DoResponsible for overseeing property management, natural heritage programs and activities on the Authority’s land holdings of nearly 50,000 acres.Responsible for acquisition of environmentally significant properties and disposition of surplus properties, including making applicable municipal application(s) necessary for disposition - ensuring regular communication with municipal and provincial offices/staff regarding acquisitions, dispositions and Minister’s Approvals, etc.Responsible for the administration of leases, licenses and management agreements with residential, commercial and municipal/government tenants.Manage the prioritization of restoration programs as aligned with the Natural Heritage Framework and associated plans and programs.Prepare short and long term work plans, management plans and set priorities, goals and strategies to guide the management of lands that align with the strategic objectives of the GRCA.Provide guidance, direction, mentorship and support to the Conservation Lands Department staff to ensure the goals and objectives of the GRCA are being met.Participate on Management Committee contributing to the development of corporate strategic plans, goals and objectives, policies and annual budgets.Prepare and present reports to the General Membership with respect to Conservation Lands Department programs and operations.Oversee the development of department policies, standard operating procedures and customer service standards.Establish strong working relationships and open collaboration with the management team and other divisions and departments within the GRCA.Develop and maintain professional relationships with key staff in municipal and provincial government, associations, service clubs and special interest groups. Develop partnerships and other relationships which will provide benefits to the GRCA and will enhance the public’s understanding of GRCA’s roles and responsibilities within the watershed.Coordinate legal aspects of property management with outside solicitors, consultantsPromote a health and safety culture within the Property department by ensuring compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act, other applicable legislation, regulations, and GRCA policies and procedures.EducationUniversity degree with a major in Public Administration, Planning, Business Administration, or related discipline.ExperienceStrong verbal communication skills with the demonstrated ability to effectively present information to boards, councils or committees and to interact with the general public.Excellent written communication skills with demonstrated ability to prepare correspondence, technical reports, financial analyses, board reports, and other documents. Experience with proposal writing, policy development and contract administration.Provincial Offences Act Designation (or the ability to obtain)Proficient computer skills including, but not limited to, word processing, spreadsheets and PowerPoint.Valid driver’s license and the ability to travel throughout the watershed.Technical Accountabilities/RequirementsMinimum of 10 years of supervisory experience. Management experience in a planning/real estate environment is considered an asset.Demonstrated experience in financial analysis and the preparation and administration of budgets.Knowledge of relevant legislation including, but not limited to, the Conservation Authorities Act, the Occupational Health and Safety Act, Provincial Offenses Act, Assessments Act, Expropriation Act, Residential and Commercial Tenancies Acts and other applicable legislation.Experience in developing and administering commercial and residential leases, agreements, licenses, etc.Experience in negotiating real estate transactions and dealing with other professionals in the legal and development industry.Competencies: Professional JudgementIntegrity/EthicsGoal/Action OrientedTeamworkCustomer FocusCompensation and Benefitssalary pay range $115,134 to $140,078benefits package with mental health services and preventative carereimbursement, and computer purchase loans.Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System (OMERS) pension fund with 100% employer matching contributions.year-round access to GRCA and Conservation Ontario conservation areas (parks).Approximate Start Date: June 2024To Apply: Please send a resume, cover letter and resume to careers@grandriver.ca in MS Word or PDF format and quote “Manager of Conservation Lands” in the subject line.Deadline for Applications: 4:00pm May 17, 2024To view a full job description with competencies please visit GRCA Job OpportunitiesWe thank you for your interest, however only candidates under consideration will be contacted.GRCA is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and selection processes and work environments. If you require any accessibility accommodations at any point during the application and hiring process, please contact us. Any information received relating to accommodation will be addressed confidentially.Pursuant to section 29(2) of the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Individual Privacy Act R.S.O. 1990, C. M.56 the personal information contained on this form is collected under the legal authority of the Conservation Authorities Act, R.S.O. 1990, chapter C.27 and is used for recruitment purposes. Questions about the collection of personal information should be directed to the Manager of Human Resources, Grand River Conservation Authority, PO Box 729, 400 Clyde Road, Cambridge, Ontario N1R 5W6. 519-621-2761.