Director, Ferry Operations
City of Toronto
Director, Ferry Operations
Recognized as one of Greater Toronto’s Top Employers, the City of Toronto is powered by a workforce of more than 35,000 public servants committed to building North America’s fourth-largest city into one of the most liveable and diverse urban centres in the world. From infrastructure renewal to community services, Toronto’s employees shape the programs, services, and spaces that touch the lives of more than three million residents.
The Toronto Islands ferry service—operated year-round from the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal—is Canada’s seventh busiest by passenger volume and serves as a critical link between downtown and Ward’s Island, Centre Island Park, and Hanlan’s Point. With over 1.4 million passengers annually, the ferry service is not only a vital part of Toronto’s waterfront experience but also a key public asset undergoing an ambitious renewal: a transition to a fully electric fleet, modernization of terminal infrastructure, and strengthened governance and operations under the City’s Fleet Services Division.
It is within this context of growth and transformation that the City of Toronto invites applications and nominations for the role of Director, Ferry Operations—a pivotal leadership position that will guide Toronto’s ferry service through one of the most significant transitions in its history.
Reporting to the General Manager of Fleet Services, the Director of Ferry Operations will provide executive leadership for Toronto’s year-round ferry system during a period of significant renewal. As the City’s designated Ship Manager under the Marine Safety Management System, they will be responsible for maintaining rigorous safety standards and continuous improvement across the fleet. They will oversee vessel and terminal operations, workforce development, asset management, refit and repair, vessel acquisition and integration, and ensure that safety, compliance, environmental protection, and emergency preparedness are firmly embedded in daily practice. With two new electric ferries set to arrive in 2026 and 2027, renewal of remaining two vessels within the next 5 to 7 years, and further fleet and terminal modernization on the horizon, the Director will carry forward a long-term vision that is sustainable, modern, and resilient, leaving a lasting impact on Toronto’s waterfront.
A critical part of the role will be building and unifying a largely new leadership team, establishing clear priorities and performance measures, and creating the conditions for collaboration and accountability. The Director will strengthen governance, ensuring that decision-making is structured, transparent, and outcomes-driven.
The role also demands a high level of political acuity and community engagement. The Director will work closely with Council, residents, community associations, and federal and marine partners, balancing operational realities with public and political expectations. They will represent the service in Council and committee meetings, public forums, and industry associations such as the Canadian Marine Advisory Council and the Canadian Ferry Association. Through clear reporting, effective communication, and visible leadership, the Director will position Toronto’s ferry system as a national model for sustainable marine operations.
Qualifications
Among the qualifications being sought in candidates, the incoming leader must have a deep and abiding commitment to advancing reconciliation, equity, diversity, inclusion, accessibility and environmental stewardship in all its forms and must believe, intrinsically, in the importance of leading with curiosity and welcoming ideas that can later be synthesized and turned into possibility. While all candidates are encouraged to apply and, in so doing, share how they see themselves adding value to the City of Toronto, the following credentials and experiences are seen as possible markers of success in the role:
- A post-secondary degree in Nautical Science, Marine Transportation, Marine Engineering, Business, or a related field, complemented by a senior marine credential such as Master Mariner, Master Near Coastal, Chief Engineer, or First Class Engineer or equivalent, would be considered a strong asset.
- Several years of progressive senior leadership experience, ideally overseeing ferry, fleet, or other complex marine operations.
- Demonstrated success in leading large, diverse teams in both unionized and non-unionized settings, with the ability to foster alignment, accountability, and engagement.
- Deep knowledge of Canadian and international marine regulations, safety management systems, and industry best practices.
- A proven record of delivering major capital and fleet renewal projects, with expertise in change management and organizational transformation.
- Strong political acumen and exceptional communication skills, with the presence to engage effectively with Council, executives, regulators, and the public.
How to Apply
The City is an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to creating a workplace culture of inclusiveness that reflects the diverse residents that we serve. Learn more about the City’s commitment to employment equity.
The City of Toronto is partnering with BES Executive Search, a firm committed to ensuring that every search mandate engages a pluralistic and intersectional range of candidates. Applicants are guided through what BES calls ‘The BES Experience’—a thoughtful, candidate-centred process that meets candidates with support and care throughout the search process. All interested applicants are encouraged to apply by clicking HERE.
In accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), applicants living with a disability will be provided with accommodation throughout the search process. Should accommodations be required, please make Helen Mekonen aware by emailing hmekonen@bessearch.com.
BES is deeply grateful to all who express interest in this opportunity and recognize the time and effort that goes into submitting an expression of interest. While only those most closely aligned with the position requirements will be contacted for an interview, all applications are reviewed with thoughtfulness and will receive correspondence from the firm as part of our commitment to delivering a respectful and inclusive candidate experience.
