Chief Building Official - City of Vancouver, Vancouver

About this opportunity

Vancouver is consistently ranked as one of the world's most liveable and environmentally sustainable cities. Recognized among BC's Top Employers and Canada's Greenest Employers, the City of Vancouver is seeking colleagues who can help advance core commitments to exceptional public service, sustainability, equity, and an outstanding quality of life for all residents. With a strong commitment to being a City of Reconciliation, you are invited to join a dedicated team within the broader public service offering meaningful work ensuring equitable access to services and upholding ethical governance.

The City of Vancouver is seeking an outstanding and visionary leader to serve as its Chief Building Official. This pivotal executive leadership role is responsible for overseeing Vancouver's building regulatory framework, ensuring public safety, advancing innovative building policies, and supporting the development of one of Canada's most dynamic cities. Reporting to the General Manager, Development, Buildings and Licensing, this role leads a large, diverse organization of professional, technical, and inspection staff.

Responsibilities

As the Chief Building Official, the successful candidate will handle several major operational and leadership duties:

• Oversight of teams responsible for building, plumbing, gas, and electrical inspections
• Managing building policy development, alternative solutions, and regulatory compliance
• Working closely with senior civic leaders, industry stakeholders, professional associations, and government partners
• Inspiring teams, building strong partnerships, and driving continuous improvement in service delivery
• Shaping public policy, advancing service excellence, and ensuring the safety and livability of a growing world-class city

Skills and experience

Candidates must meet specific professional, educational, and operational criteria to qualify for this statutory leadership position:

• A degree in Engineering or Architecture and eligibility for professional registration in British Columbia
• Extensive experience in building regulation, construction, code administration, inspections, permitting, or a related field
• A minimum of 10 years of progressively senior leadership experience, including responsibility for large, complex teams and operations
• Demonstrated success leading unionized and non-unionized workforces, regulatory programs, policy development, and organizational change
• Expert knowledge of the National Building Code, BC Building Code, Vancouver Building By-law, and building regulatory practices
• Previous Chief Building Official or Deputy Chief Building Official experience, OR be a Certified Professional (CP) in British Columbia