Markham announces new Director and Deputy Director of Planning & Urban Design

MARKHAM, ON – January 6, 2023 – The City of Markham is pleased to introduce Giulio Cescato as its new Director of Planning & Urban Design, as well as the promotion of Darryl Lyons to Deputy Director. The new appointees bring with them valuable experience, a proven track record of accomplishments and a focus on innovation and community building.

“The City of Markham is committed to delivering exceptional services by exceptional people and I am confident both Director Cescato and Deputy Director Lyons will advance our planning objectives through innovative ways while continuing to prioritize a focus on exceptional urban design, which has been a hallmark of Markham for decades,” said Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti.

“The City of Markham continues to be recognized as Canada’s premier city employer and these appointments are an example of the depth of experience and knowledge within our organization and the ability to attract top-notch industry talent,” said Chief Administrative Officer Andy Taylor.

“We’re thrilled to have such highly experienced senior level individuals in these two roles,” said Commissioner of Development Services Arvin Prasad. “I have no doubt that through the leadership efforts of both Director Cescato and Deputy Director Lyons, our Planning & Urban Design Department will continue to excel as we lead the way in innovation.”

Director Giulio Cescato joins the City from the Arcadis IBI Group where he was the Associate Director of Planning in their Toronto office since 2021. At IBI Group, Giulio grew their planning practice, significantly increasing revenue and productivity, while fostering a supportive and collaborative work environment. Prior to joining the IBI Group, Giulio had more than a decade of progressive planning experience in the City of Toronto holding various positions including, most recently, Acting Director, Community Planning. Beyond his work, Giulio founded Planners in Public Spaces, an innovative public consultation strategy that is used in the City of Toronto. He has taught Policy Planning at Toronto Metropolitan University and also created the City of Toronto's digital consultation strategy for planning applications and studies. He supports and works closely with the Mentorship Initiative for Indigenous and Planners of Colour (MIIPOC), and writes about planning policy and theory. Giulio graduated with a Masters Degree in Environmental Studies from York University and is a Registered Professional Planner as well as a Member of the Canadian Institute of Planners.

Deputy Director Darryl Lyons will assume the role of Deputy Director, Planning & Urban Design. Darryl has been instrumental in leading the City’s efforts with respect to the Yonge North Subway Extension and the Housing Strategy as well as leading major secondary plans such as the Mount Joy/Markham Road Secondary Plan. Darryl has provided sound advice to senior management and Council on a variety of matters including the official plan updates and provincial initiatives. Darryl will continue to be responsible for the policy & research section, the Yonge North Subway Extension work and will take on additional responsibilities leading the City’s Development Facilitation Office (DFO), which seeks to improve the planning process and expedite development approvals.

The Planning & Urban Design Department provides leadership and is responsible for various matters including the official plan, secondary plans, natural heritage, policy studies, commenting on provincial legislation and regional planning matters, and the Yonge North Subway Extension.

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Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti's Office:
At mayorscarpitti@markham.ca.

All other media inquiries / interview requests for the City of Markham: 
Kisha Powell, Media Relations & Communications Specialist at kpowell@markham.ca.

About Markham: Markham, an award-winning municipality with over 356,000 residents and the largest of nine communities in York Region, is home to over 650 corporate head offices and more than 1,500 high tech and life science companies. Markham is a leader in attracting foreign direct investment with more than 234 foreign companies located in the City. Founded in the 1790s, today Markham is Canada’s most diverse community and enjoys a rich heritage, outstanding community planning and services, and a vibrant local economy.

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