Legal Counsel

About Waterfront Toronto

Created in 2001 through a partnership between the Government of Canada, the Province of Ontario, and the City of Toronto, Waterfront Toronto is responsible for guiding the transformation of Toronto’s waterfront. Our mission is to deliver a renewed waterfront that showcases forward-thinking approaches to sustainability, urban design excellence, real estate development, and advanced technology infrastructure.

Working alongside community members as well as public- and private-sector partners, we are building vibrant, inclusive neighbourhoods defined by parks, open spaces, and sustainable mixed-use communities that enhance the quality of life for residents, workers, and visitors. Our work is reshaping the waterfront into a place for all to enjoy, while strengthening economic growth and contributing to how Toronto, Ontario, and Canada are viewed on the world stage.

The Opportunity: Legal Counsel

We are seeking a Legal Counsel to join our Legal Department. Reporting to the Associate General Counsel and General Counsel, this role will partner with internal teams on matters related to real estate, development, corporate and governance issues, Board support, and other key corporate initiatives.

The Legal Counsel will provide both legal and strategic advice, lead negotiations with external parties, draft and review a wide range of agreements, and manage outside counsel on matters of medium to high complexity. The role offers the opportunity to work on significant projects shaping Toronto’s waterfront and requires balancing legal precision with practical business judgment.

Key Responsibilities

• Advise on large-scale real estate and infrastructure projects, interpreting applicable laws and resolving legal issues as they arise.

• Draft and negotiate development agreements with stakeholders, including private partners and the City of Toronto.

• Oversee and direct the work of external counsel to ensure efficiency and alignment with organizational goals.

• Prepare and negotiate agreements supporting project execution, such as licenses, easements, utility arrangements, and construction contracts.

• Provide advice on Construction Act issues, procurement processes, and regulatory compliance.

• Support the General Counsel with Board and governance matters.

• Offer legal guidance on corporate areas including privacy, IT, HR, insurance, FOI, and litigation.

• Prepare and review commercial contracts, ensuring adherence to corporate policies and regulations.

• Collaborate with government partners and assist finance and communications teams.

• Monitor emerging legal and industry developments relevant to the Corporation.

• May also be involved in financing, fundraising, and intellectual property issues.

Skills and Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of legal experience, either in private practice or an in-house role.

• Strong expertise in real estate law, including property acquisitions and dispositions, leasing and licensing, construction, municipal, and environmental matters.

• Solid experience in corporate, commercial, and policy-related legal work.

• Law degree from an accredited institution and membership in good standing with the Law Society of Ontario.

• Ongoing commitment to professional development and staying current with evolving legislation and case law.

• Experience with governance matters is considered an asset.

Compensation

We offer a competitive salary and benefits package.

Additional Information

Waterfront Toronto currently operates on a hybrid work model, with employees expected in the office three days per week and working remotely the rest of the time. This arrangement is subject to change.

Application Process

Please submit your cover letter and resume together in a single PDF through LinkedIn by August 15, 2025. In your cover letter, indicate how you learned about the posting, specifying the site or network.

We thank all applicants for their interest. Only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.

Future Opportunities: By submitting an application, you agree that we may consider you for future similar openings and may contact you if such opportunities arise.

Our Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

Waterfront Toronto is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to building a team that reflects the diversity of Toronto. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all individuals feel valued and respected. We encourage candidates to share how their unique experiences and perspectives would contribute to this role and our workplace.

We will provide equitable treatment and accommodation in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA). If you require accommodation at any stage of the recruitment process, please let us know, and we will work with you to meet your needs up to the point of undue hardship.