What does a Director of Development do?

The Director of Development oversees the real estate development portfolio for the entire organization, assists in finding new potential buildings or properties to develop, and manages the development team and project pipeline through the entire development life cycle. They also help negotiate the sale or lease of the organization’s developments and work with internal and/or external asset and property management teams to turn over the completed project.

Director of Development Responsibilities

  • Manage all phases of development for development projects, including identifying new projects, developing feasibility analyzes, obtaining local approvals, developing and revising proformas, and managing the design, financing, and construction phases.
  • Facilitate development partnerships among developers, community-based organizations, and local jurisdictions.
  • Conduct all physical, financial, and operational due diligence on properties during feasibility, acquisition, and predevelopment phases.
  • Coordinate pre-development and development activities including but not limited to: lender relationships, legal documents, financial planning including development and operating budgets, construction documents, and ongoing management of project financials.
  • Monitor and track construction progress and cost to ensure timely project completion.
  • Identify and manage qualified architects, engineers, environmental firms, construction companies, and other professionals as needed.
  • Coordinate marketing and lease-up process and transition to stabilized operations, working with internal departments (asset management, property management, fiscal, and other division) before, during, and after construction to ensure smooth tenant relations and transition to operations.
  • Oversee compliance with city, state, and federal agencies, and also with private investors/lenders.
  • Coordinate responses to Request for Proposals and Request for Qualifications.

Director of Development Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in real estate, engineering, business, or finance and at least 5 years of real estate development experience.
  • Master’s degree in business, finance, real estate, or planning is preferred.
  • Knowledge of construction and property management processes.
  • Training in underwriting, financial feasibility, and analysis.
  • Must have proven ability to manage multiple real estate development projects simultaneously, to lead teams of contractors and external consultants, and to effectively solve problems on a variety of issues that may occur during the real estate development process.
  • Highly developed written and oral communication skills, including preparation of reports, briefing papers, and correspondence.
  • Excellent organizational, problem-solving, and time management skills, including the planning and managing of multiple projects.
  • Ability to be proactive and capable of resolving complex problems expeditiously.

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