Manager of Development and Project Entitlements

Role Purpose JLL is seeking an experienced Director of Development and Project Entitlements to provide subject matter expertise for retail development projects across the continental United States. This senior‑level position requires a minimum of 15 years of experience in retail and commercial development, with deep expertise in entitlement processes, permitting, and stakeholder coordination. The successful candidate will drive exceptional client service delivery while optimizing project timelines and success rates for our banking sector client. This role is new to our team and will require the candidate to develop new processes, refine existing processes and gain buy‑in from key stakeholders. Day‑to‑Day Responsibilities Deliver exceptional client service through technical expertise, effective communication, and strategic relationship management. Serve as the primary liaison between JLL, the client, and various stakeholders throughout the development process, ensuring seamless project coordination and timely delivery of outcomes. Leverage extensive retail development expertise to guide successful project delivery from inception through full permit authorization and utility provisioning. Accountable for the completion of due diligence processes to inform feasibility of site selection; work with third‑party consultants to build advisory packages for the client and delivery project management team. Accountable for completion of entitlement processes, including zoning applications, land use approvals, environmental permits, and utility coordination. Analyze and optimize existing processes while developing new methodologies, playbooks, and responsibility frameworks for internal teams and external consultants. Develop and refine tracking mechanisms to identify project schedule acceleration opportunities while minimizing forecast error rates. Create and maintain comprehensive databases of permit expeditors, land use counsel, and subject matter experts. Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) for external consultants and monitor their performance, workload, and deliverables. Conduct root cause analyses on problematic submissions and provide peer reviews of due diligence reports. Provide expert consultation on complex or problematic developments, offering troubleshooting support and technical guidance. Advise on landlord work letter lease negotiations, zoning requirements, environmental entitlements, and utility acquisition processes. Foster collaborative relationships between transaction, design, and construction teams. Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, or Business (advanced degree preferred, particularly in retail or commercial development). Minimum 15 years of relevant experience in civil engineering, architecture, or real estate development with strong emphasis on first and second‑generation retail construction projects, both ground‑up and in‑line developments. Comprehensive understanding of zoning laws, land use regulations, and entitlement processes across multiple jurisdictions. Deep knowledge of land use planning, zoning codes, variance and special use approvals, PUDs, and subdivision processes. Strong grasp of federal and local governmental authorities, building codes, environmental regulations, and laws affecting retail development. Understanding of land surveying, title work, and utility provider requirements. Proven track record managing projects from lease negotiation through entitlement, permitting, construction, and close‑out phases. Extensive knowledge of retail space design, construction requirements, and scheduling processes. Experience with due diligence of physical site conditions, soil remediation implementation, and storm water management. Proficiency in Excel and MS Project or equivalent industry scheduling software. Demonstrated ability to monitor and direct multidisciplinary teams of architects, engineers, and land use counsel throughout entitlement processes. Preferred Qualifications Familiarity with rezoning processes, development agreements, subdivision platting, PUD approvals, civil engineering, utility easements, and public hearing processes. Environmental experience with soil contamination, floodplain, and wetland mitigation. Location Preference & Travel This role will require travel up to 30%. While listed as "Remote", a strong preference will be for a candidate who can be hybrid in one of the following markets: Charlotte, NC; Tampa, FL; Dallas/Plano, TX. This position does not provide visa sponsorship; candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship. Compensation Estimated compensation for this position: $145,000.00 – $210,000.00 USD per year. This range is an estimate and actual compensation may differ. Final compensation packages are determined by various considerations including but not limited to candidate qualifications, location, market conditions, and internal considerations. Benefits 401(k) plan with matching company contributions. Comprehensive Medical, Dental & Vision Care. Paid parental leave at 100% of salary. Paid Time Off and Company Holidays. Early access to earned wages through Daily Pay. Equal Employment Opportunity Jones Lang LaSalle (“JLL”) is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. #J-18808-Ljbffr Jones Lang LaSalle Incorporated