Manager, Strategy and Innovation, 1 year temporary assignment

Department: Corporate Services
Reports to: Director, Corporate Services

Salary Range: $124,137 – $145,217 annually

Are you a strategic thinker with a passion for innovation and continuous improvement? Do you thrive on driving change, shaping organizational culture, and delivering results? The City of Kawartha Lakes is seeking a dynamic Manager, Strategy and Innovation to lead the development and execution of corporate strategies and business process improvements that make a meaningful impact across the organization.

Position Overview

As the Manager, Strategy and Innovation, you will champion a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence. This role is responsible for leading the design and implementation of corporate strategies, driving Lean Six Sigma initiatives, and ensuring organizational alignment with key strategic goals. You will oversee corporate business process improvements, internal audits, and internal communications to enhance service delivery and organizational performance.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

Lead the development, execution, and measurement of corporate strategies and major projects using continuous improvement methodologies.
Establish and maintain a corporate Continuous Improvement/Lean program, ensuring consistent use of tools and processes across all departments.
Support and mentor staff through training, coaching, and facilitation of Lean Six Sigma initiatives.
Conduct research and analysis to stay ahead of industry trends and recommend innovative solutions.

Organizational Development & Culture

Promote a culture of innovation and learning through leadership, communication, and cross-departmental collaboration.
Partner with senior leadership to align corporate initiatives with organizational priorities.
Oversee internal communications to ensure messaging aligns with corporate strategy and supports employee engagement.

Team & People Leadership

Lead and inspire a high-performing team, including the Strategy and Performance Specialist and Internal Communications Specialist.
Provide coaching, feedback, and development opportunities to support staff success and organizational outcomes.
Manage recruitment, performance, and training of direct reports in alignment with People Services policies.

Operational Excellence

Oversee delivery of organizational business process improvements and internal audits.
Administer corporate standards, directives, and performance measurements to achieve strategic goals.
Develop and manage budgets, procure services and goods, and ensure effective stakeholder engagement.

Qualifications & Experience

Degree in Business/Public Administration or related field.
Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification or PMP, or willingness to obtain
Minimum of 7 years of progressive leadership experience, preferably in a municipal or public sector environment.
Proven track record of leading teams, driving results-oriented change, and implementing corporate strategies.
Strong knowledge of municipal operations, governance, and applicable legislation.
Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with demonstrated ability to engage stakeholders at all levels.
Advanced analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
Experience managing budgets, strategic plans, and organizational risk.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and related business software.
Valid Ontario Class “G” driver’s licence and ability to travel to multiple sites as required.
Satisfactory Criminal Record Check upon conditional offer of employment.

About the City of Kawartha Lakes

Located in the heart of Ontario’s cottage country, the City of Kawartha Lakes is a vibrant and growing municipality known for its scenic beauty, strong sense of community, and commitment to delivering excellent public services. With over 250 lakes and rivers, diverse urban and rural communities, and a thriving local economy, City of Kawartha Lakes offers an outstanding quality of life for residents and a dynamic work environment for employees dedicated to making a difference.

We encourage all qualified candidates to apply and provide notice if accommodations are needed. Please contact our Recruitment Team at recruitment@city.kawarthalakes.on.ca to request support or to discuss your accessibility needs confidentially.