POSITION SUMMARY:  Our client is seeking a Director of Development to join their growing team. This role will be responsible for managing all phases of development and redevelopment projects across shopping center retail, industrial, and other commercial real estate sectors throughout the Southeastern United States. The Director of Development will oversee the process from acquisition and entitlements through design, construction, tenant coordination, and turnover, ensuring projects are completed on schedule and within budget.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Project Leadership:
• Manage multiple development and redevelopment projects simultaneously with a primary focus on shopping centers and supporting initiatives in industrial and other commercial sectors.
• Lead due diligence, assist with feasibility analysis, and project underwriting.
• Entitlements and Approvals:
• Oversee zoning approvals, site plan approvals, permits, and other regulatory requirements.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with municipal agencies, utility providers, and community stakeholders.
• Design and Construction Oversight:
• Coordinate design teams, including architects, engineers, and consultants.
• Lead contractor selection, bid processes, and contract negotiations.
• Manage construction activities, monitor progress and quality, and address field issues promptly.  Includes some travel to job sites.
• Financial Management:
• Maintain accurate financial tracking of project costs and cash flow forecasts.
• Review and approve invoices, change orders, and payment applications.
• Tenant Coordination:
• Serve as the primary point of contact for tenants regarding design approvals, build-out requirements, and project milestones.
• Reporting and Communication:
• Provide regular updates to leadership.
• Prepare project status reports, presentations, and supporting documentation.
• Risk Management:
• Identify project risks proactively and implement mitigation strategies.
• Ensure compliance with insurance, legal, and safety obligations.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Real Estate, Construction Management, Architecture, Business, or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience managing real estate development projects, ideally in shopping center redevelopment and/or commercial or industrial sectors.
• Proven track record of delivering projects on time and within budget.
• Exceptional project management, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and project management software.
• Ability and willingness to travel to project sites across the Southeast as required.

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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