JOB OVERVIEW:

The Development Director is responsible for overseeing the entire process of developing multifamily residential buildings, from site acquisition to construction and eventual leasing or sale. This role involves managing all aspects of real estate development, including financial planning, project management, design coordination, legal compliance, and coordination with contractors, architects, and local government authorities.  The Development Director ensures that each project is completed on time, within budget, and meets all regulatory and environmental standards.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Site Selection & Acquisition:

• Conduct market research to identify potential sites for development.
• Evaluate land, zoning regulations, and community factors.
• Negotiate land acquisitions, including terms, pricing, and legal requirements.

Feasibility Analysis:

• Perform financial feasibility studies for new projects, including cost estimation, projected revenue, and return on investment.
• Work with financial analysts to secure funding, whether through debt, equity, or joint venture partnerships.

Planning & Design:

• Collaborate with architects, urban planners, and engineers to develop preliminary designs and blueprints for the multifamily complex.
• Ensure compliance with local zoning codes, environmental regulations, and other legal requirements.
• Obtain necessary permits and approvals from local government bodies.

Project Management:

• Oversee the construction process, including contractor selection, scheduling, and budget management.
• Ensure the project adheres to the planned timeline and budget.
• Monitor and manage risks associated with the construction process, ensuring that quality standards are met.

Regulatory Compliance & Risk Management:

• Ensure all development projects meet local, state, and federal regulations, including environmental, safety, and legal requirements.
• Coordinate with legal teams to ensure contracts, permits, and other necessary documents are in place.

Marketing & Leasing/Sales Strategy:

• Develop a marketing strategy for the multifamily complex, including pricing, branding, and promotion.
• Coordinate with leasing teams to attract tenants or with real estate sales teams if the properties are to be sold.
• Work with property managers to ensure smooth transition of completed projects into leasing and operations phases.

Financial Oversight & Budgeting:

• Manage and track budgets, ensuring that projects remain financially viable throughout development.
• Prepare financial reports and updates for senior management, investors, and stakeholders.
• Coordinate with financing partners and lenders for funding and financing requirements.

Stakeholder Communication:

• Regularly communicate with investors, senior management, and other key stakeholders about project status, challenges, and successes.
• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders such as city officials, contractors, architects, and local communities.

KEY SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Real Estate, Urban Planning, Civil Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field. A Master's degree in Real Estate Development or a similar discipline is preferred.
• Experience: 5+ years of experience in real estate development, with at least 3 years of experience specifically in residential or multifamily development.
• Technical Knowledge: Understanding of construction processes, project management, zoning laws, and real estate finance.
• Project Management: Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple aspects of a project simultaneously.
• Financial Acumen: Experience in budgeting, financial forecasting, and securing financing for real estate projects.
• Negotiation Skills: Experience with negotiations in land acquisition, contracts, and vendor agreements.
• Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with local, state, and federal regulations related to real estate and development.
• Leadership Skills: Ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage external contractors and consultants.
• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills; the ability to present to senior management and investors.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Certifications: Real Estate Development Certification or Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.
• Software Skills: Proficiency in project management software (e.g., Procore, MS Project), financial modeling tools, and Microsoft Office Suite.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Office-based work with occasional site visits during the construction phase.
• Requires travel to various locations depending on project site.
• Ability to work under pressure, meeting deadlines and managing multiple projects simultaneously.

About Poline Search Partners

Poline Search Partners is an international executive search firm specializing in the shopping center industry. We serve property owners, developers, retailers and service providers who are seeking remarkable talent and work to align them with candidates who are eager for new growth opportunities. Since 1979, our team has been connecting companies and candidates with a commitment to integrity and client satisfaction—making us the industry’s most trusted leader in recruitment.

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