Manager, Open Space Services

Job ID: 2788 

Openings: 1 

Jurisdiction: Out of Scope 

Division: City Planning & Community Services 

Department: Parks & Open Space Services 

Branch: Open Space Services 

Location Name: Regina, Saskatchewan, CA 

Type of Posting: Internal & External

 Employment Type: Permanent

Annual Salary: $112,099.00 - $149,465.00 (2024 Rates)

Date Posted: March 28, 2025

Closing Date: April 13, 2025

Land Acknowledgement

We are proud to reside on Treaty 4 Territory and the traditional lands of the Cree, Saulteaux, Dakota, Nakota, Lakota, and Métis Nation, honoring and respecting these Nations and ancestors of this territory and grateful to be here. Regina is committed to building trust and creating true partnerships with Indigenous peoples. 

Equity, Diversity & Inclusion

The City of Regina is an equal opportunities employer dedicated to fostering a respectful, collaborative, inclusive, and barrier-free workplace, allowing everyone to achieve their full potential. We value diversity as a key to our success and encourage all qualified candidates, including Indigenous peoples, people of color, 2SLGBTQIAP+ individuals of all genders, persons of disabilities, and members of equity-seeking communities, to apply.

The City of Regina is committed to ensure accessible and accommodating processes during the application and selection phases. If you need accommodation at any point during the recruitment process, please inform our Talent team and we'll collaborate with you to address your requirements.

Position Summary:

The Manager of the Open Space Services Branch is responsible for overseeing the operations, program planning, stakeholder relations, financial management, and people leadership within the Department of Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Services. The mandate includes providing leadership for the operation and maintenance of the City’s four golf courses, the conservation and management of the Urban Forest, and the management of the Integrated Pest Management and Horticulture programs. As a member of the Department’s management team, the Manager contributes to City-wide projects and initiatives, ensuring the efficient and effective delivery of services.

Key Duties & Responsibilities:
 

1. Operational Planning

• Contribute to the development of the Department’s long-term and annual plans.
• Lead the creation and implementation of the Open Space Services Branch’s annual operational plan in alignment with City and Department goals.
• Set objectives, service levels, and performance targets, while establishing performance metrics and evaluating progress.
• Undertake research to develop policies, services, programs, procedures, and explore alternative funding sources.
• Ensure the development of consistent policies, systems, and procedures across all areas of the mandate.

2. Financial Management

• Lead the development of fee strategies for program areas and oversee the Branch budget.
• Ensure timely forecasting, analysis of budget and expenditures, and implement proactive mitigation strategies.
• Secure external funding through grants and targeted federal and provincial partnerships.
• Ensure alignment with City standards in financial management practices.
• Approve procurement and oversee business case development.

3. Stakeholder Relationship Management

• Develop relationships and implement corporate priorities.
• Provide advice and guidance to senior City leaders.
• Address escalated service issues, complaints, and policy concerns.
• Negotiate and coordinate licenses, contracts, and partnerships with external parties.
• Meet with community representatives to plan programs and resolve service issues.

4. Human Resource Leadership

• Lead the development of the Branch’s workforce plan, ensuring sufficient human resources in both capacity and competency.
• Provide leadership, mentoring, training, and coaching for supervisors, coordinators, and staff.
• Conduct performance planning and assessments for staff, ensuring adherence to goals and development objectives.
• Manage employee and labour relations, including grievance and arbitration processes.
• Monitor Branch culture and productivity, intervening as necessary.

5. Risk Management

• Develop, maintain, and ensure adherence to Branch-specific policies, procedures, and practices.
• Lead safety meetings, worksite inspections, and foster a safety-focused culture.
• Proactively identify operational risks, conduct service reviews, and develop action plans to mitigate issues.

6. Operational Accountabilities

• Oversee the management and maintenance of the four golf courses and liaise with relevant stakeholders.
• Provide oversight for forestry, horticulture, and pest control programs.
• Ensure quality control in daily operations and with external contractors.
• Conduct research and provide recommendations on fees for service, facility closures, and other program decisions.
• Lead capital projects related to asset protection and enhancement.

Key Qualifications:
 

• At least 5 years of progressive experience in a leadership role, including experience in the management of parks, golf courses, urban forestry, pest management, or related services.
• Strong understanding of program/service delivery models, financial management, performance measurement, and human resources.
• Expertise in forestry, integrated pest management, horticulture, and the golf industry.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to manage complex stakeholder relationships.
• Proficiency in budget development, procurement processes, and grant management.
• Valid driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle.
• Certifications related to parks and open space management (e.g., ISA Certified Arborist, PMP) would be considered an asset.

Working/Other Conditions:
 

• Work Environment:
  • The majority of work is undertaken on-site, with regular visits to City facilities.
  • Work may be conducted in various weather conditions, requiring the use of personal protective equipment.
  • The position involves both office work and field visits to assess operational and program needs.
     
• Physical, Visual, Auditory & Concentration Demands (PVAC):
  • No unusual physical, visual, auditory, or concentration demands associated with this role.
     
• Hours of Work:
  • Full-time position with flexibility in hours based on operational needs. Some weekend and evening work may be required.

Additional Requirements:

• Successful candidates may be required to provide a satisfactory criminal record check per the City of Regina's Criminal Record Check Policy.
• Proof of education is required.
• Additional assessments may be conducted to evaluate competencies, skills, and knowledge.

At City of Regina, we offer competitive compensation, health and wellness benefits, and growth through educational support and in-house courses. If you’re passionate about public service and making a difference, apply now!

For detailed job descriptions, CBAs, and application tips, visit our Applicant & Job Resources page.

Note: Only applications submitted via our online application system are accepted