Director of Development

Job Description

Job Description

Position Summary

We are seeking an accomplished Director of Development to lead the planning, design, and execution of complex mixed-use development projects, including marinas, hotels, luxury condominiums, and retail developments. The ideal candidate will possess a strong architectural background combined with extensive experience managing all phases of the development lifecycle—from concept and design through permitting, pre-construction, construction, and project delivery.

This individual will serve as a strategic leader, collaborating with architects, engineers, consultants, contractors, ownership, and municipal agencies to deliver projects that meet design excellence, financial objectives, and operational goals.

Key Responsibilities

Development Leadership

• Lead multiple development projects simultaneously from acquisition and conceptual planning through project completion and turnover
• Develop project strategies, schedules, budgets, and execution plans aligned with company objectives
• Manage project risks while ensuring milestones, budgets, and quality standards are achieved
• Present project updates, financial analyses, and strategic recommendations to executive leadership and ownership

Architectural & Design Management

• Direct the architectural design process from concept through construction documentation
• Collaborate with architectural firms, interior designers, landscape architects, marine engineers, and specialty consultants
• Ensure projects reflect the company's design standards, brand identity, operational requirements, and long-term vision
• Review drawings, specifications, and design documents for quality, constructability, and value engineering opportunities
• Coordinate design reviews with ownership, operations, and project stakeholders

Project Management

• Oversee entitlement, zoning, permitting, environmental approvals, and regulatory compliance
• Manage project schedules, budgets, cost forecasts, and consultant agreements
• Coordinate pre-construction planning, contractor procurement, and construction administration
• Monitor project progress through regular site visits and project meetings
• Resolve design, construction, and operational issues proactively

Marina, Hospitality & Mixed-Use Development

• Lead the development of marina facilities, waterfront infrastructure, hospitality projects, luxury residential developments, and retail spaces
• Coordinate with hospitality operators, marina consultants, residential sales teams, and retail leasing representatives to ensure operational and commercial objectives are achieved
• Oversee integration of mixed-use components to create cohesive, high-quality developments
• Ensure projects meet applicable building codes, accessibility standards, and waterfront regulations

Financial & Contract Management

• Prepare and manage project budgets and capital expenditures
• Evaluate consultant proposals, contractor bids, and development costs
• Negotiate contracts with architects, consultants, contractors, and vendors
• Review payment applications, change orders, and project forecasts
• Identify cost-saving opportunities while preserving project quality and design intent

Cross-Functional Leadership

• Collaborate with finance, construction, legal, operations, sales, marketing, and asset management teams throughout the project lifecycle
• Lead project meetings and maintain effective communication among all stakeholders
• Mentor and develop Development Managers and project staff
• Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement

Regulatory & Stakeholder Relations

• Build and maintain relationships with municipalities, planning agencies, permitting authorities, and community stakeholders
• Represent the company during entitlement hearings, planning meetings, and public presentations
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations affecting development projects

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Architecture and Urban Design, Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Real Estate Development, or a related field required
• Master's degree in Architecture, Real Estate Development, Business Administration (MBA), or related discipline preferred
• 10+ years of progressive experience in real estate development, architecture, or project management
• Strong architectural design experience with mixed-use developments
• Proven experience managing marina, hospitality, condominium, and retail development projects
• Thorough understanding of entitlement, permitting, construction, and development processes
• Experience managing consultants, architects, contractors, and multidisciplinary project teams

Skills & Competencies

• Strong architectural and design leadership
• Extensive knowledge of construction methods, building systems, and development processes
• Financial acumen, including budgeting, forecasting, and pro forma analysis
• Exceptional project management and organizational skills
• Excellent negotiation and contract management abilities
• Strong leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills
• Ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously
• Strategic thinking and sound decision-making capabilities
• High attention to detail while maintaining a big-picture perspective

Preferred Qualifications

• Professional architectural license (RA) preferred
• LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP) or sustainability certification is a plus
• Experience developing luxury hospitality, waterfront, or destination resort projects
• Experience working with nationally recognized architecture firms and luxury hospitality brands
• Familiarity with coastal development regulations, marina permitting, and environmental compliance
• Proficiency with project management software, scheduling tools, and construction document review platforms

Financial Intuition serving LATAM clients, located in the Brickell area.

Company Description

Financial Intuition serving LATAM clients, located in the Brickell area.