Director of Development

Position Summary:

This position is responsible for the full lifecycle of community development projects—from sourcing and acquiring land to overseeing development construction through permit-ready completion. This role integrates strategic land acquisition, market analytics, contract negotiation, and field execution, while also leading internal teams and maintaining strong relationships with external stakeholders.

Performance Objectives:

· Source, evaluate, and secure new land opportunities in existing and emerging markets

· Oversee all phases of land development from acquisition through permit-ready stage

· Ensure development projects are completed on time, within scope, and aligned with company standards

· Develop and maintain relationships with municipalities, engineers, landowners, and industry partners

· Utilize market data and analytics to identify growth opportunities and guide acquisition strategy

· Lead and support development team members to ensure consistent execution and performance

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong understanding of land development processes from acquisition through construction
• Working knowledge of construction drawings, utilities, and civil engineering concepts
• Experience with real estate contracts, negotiation, and deal structuring
• Ability to analyze market data and identify strategic growth opportunities
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Excel, Word) and mapping tools (e.g., Google Earth, NearMap)
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills
• Strong organizational and time management abilities
• Ability to lead teams and manage multiple projects simultaneously

Key Responsibilities:

Land Acquisition & Strategy

• Negotiate land purchases, contracts, and development agreements
• Identify, research, and pursue new land opportunities (on- and off-market)
• Conduct market analysis using mapping tools and data sources to guide decisions
• Present land opportunities and recommendations to leadership
• Maintain pipeline of acquisition opportunities and meet defined contract goals

Development Project Oversight

• Monitor all phases of development construction using checklists, scopes of work, and site visits
• Ensure projects progress from land purchase through permit-ready status on schedule
• Coordinate with contractors, engineers, and utility providers
• Ensure installation of utilities (electric, gas, water, telecom) prior to home closings
• Oversee erosion control, signage, infrastructure, and landscaping of developments
• Conduct regular site visits and maintain active field presence

Team Leadership & Collaboration

• Train, mentor, and support Community Development Project Managers
• Lead or participate in development meetings, land meetings, and planning sessions
• Collaborate cross-functionally with construction, sales, and leadership teams
• Provide problem-solving support across active development projects

Team Leadership & Collaboration

• Lead due diligence processes including feasibility, utilities, and engineering considerations
• Maintain and analyze data on land opportunities, contracts, and market trends
• Build and manage mapping and tracking systems for land, utilities, and demographics
• Stay current on industry trends, regulations, and development best practices

Process & Relationship Management

• Develop and maintain development policies, procedures, and documentation
• Build strong relationships with city officials, engineers, landowners, and contractors
• Represent the company at planning commission, city council, and industry events
• Maintain organized records of meetings, contracts, and development activities
• Other duties as assigned