What does a VP of Development do?

The VP of Development is responsible for the oversight of the development and construction of the company’s project portfolio, while also providing high level guidance to the executive management team throughout the entire process.

As VP of Development, they represent the company in meetings/events and establish and maintain vital relationships with all development partners, municipal departments, architects, engineers, consultants, contractors, lenders, attorneys, clients, and the general public. They lead the business in different areas such as property or site acquisition, project management, planning, people management, budget, and schedule.

VP of Development Responsibilities

  • Lead and report on all aspects of the development process from project inception, design development, site planning & entitlement, and construction.
  • Identify new projects and potential development sites through performing due diligence, development and zoning feasibility analyses.
  • Oversee all development team meetings and ensure that company’s interests and objectives are addressed adequately.
  • Establish governance and maintain all project development schedules and checklists.
  • In cooperation with internal departments, evaluate and establish project objectives to maximize property usage and return on investment.
  • Ensure submittal of all appropriate and relevant development, governmental, and municipal documentation for timely processing of prospective projects.
  • Assist the architectural & engineering teams in the development, review, and refinement of plans and specifications for suitability, quality, cost efficiency, constructability aesthetics, etc., in a manner accounting for site capacity, elevations, interior concepts, and site constraints.
  • Develop architectural, engineering, and contractor Request for Proposals for selection of development and construction team.
  • Oversee the bidding and negotiation of development-related contracts and agreements.
  • Review all contractors pay applications and provide approval of contractor payments for processing.
  • Manage design and construction phases: overseeing affiliated contractors to consult on issues and change orders, maintain schedule and budget adherence, and ensure quality control and safety measures.
  • Coordinate all communication with various outside entities in the interest of maintaining established timelines, budgets, and standards pursuant to the company’s brand and core values.

VP of Development Qualifications

  • At least 7 years of commercial, residential, and/or mixed-use construction project management experience.
  • Bachelor’s degree in real estate, construction management, architecture, building science, engineering, or a related field. Master’s degree preferred.
  • Proven success in leading complex development, construction, and/or re-development projects.
  • Extensive knowledge of the local real estate market and well-informed of industry news and trends.
  • Effective and impactful communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills.
  • Adaptability to employ strategic troubleshooting to solve problems in a dynamic work environment.
  • Strong time management and multitasking skills; ability to continually organize and reprioritize new and existing tasks.
  • Sound business judgment and risk management skills.
  • Ability to analyze and synthesize complex information into critical points to be presented with clarity and concision.
  • Demonstrated initiative, accountability, and resourcefulness for follow-through and follow-up.

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