Senior Director of Construction & Development Operations

Our client in the real estate development space is seeking a Senior Director for their construction developments. This is a rare opportunity to be the primary executive driving a landmark, large-scale commercial development project from the ground up. This individual will serve as the owner's representative, be the face and voice of the organization to all external construction, architectural, exhibit planning, and governmental partners. Key Responsibilities Owner's Representative & Executive Liaison Represent the company in all meetings with the architectural firm, general contractor, exhibit planning agency, town planning teams, and government entities Act as the primary point of contact and decision-maker on behalf of the organization for all project-related communications Collaborate closely with the CEO and Vice President of Finance & People on strategic direction, budgeting, and project milestones Communicate effectively with investors, bankers, legal counsel, and senior executives of partner organizations Project Management & Oversight Lead all phases of the construction project from pre-construction through to project closeout and certificate of occupancy Oversee and maintain the master milestone schedule, ensuring all deadlines across design, permitting, procurement, construction, and fit-out phases are met Conduct quarterly re-forecasting of construction and project management volumes and fees Manage project closeout activities including punch lists, final documentation (manuals, warranties, keys), and financial closeout Monitor contractor compliance with all insurance requirements Budget & Cost Management Prepare and manage comprehensive project budgets covering both hard and soft costs Submit all budget documentation to the VP of Finance & People for review and approval Monitor development, project management, and supervisory fees to ensure accurate billing and support overall profitability Procurement & Vendor Management Lead the procurement of architects, engineers, general contractors, construction managers, and other specialist consultants Prepare and evaluate RFPs, manage pre-qualification processes, assess proposals, and oversee contract preparation Build and maintain strong working relationships with all third-party vendors and municipal stakeholders Assist with business development activities including creating and reviewing vendor proposals Permitting, Compliance & Contracts Oversee all governmental approvals and permitting processes required for construction, through to certificate of occupancy Obtain and manage insurance certificates from consultants and contractors Prepare construction contracts in collaboration with General Counsel or the company's law firm Early Priorities (First 90–180 Days) Establish working relationships with the architectural firm and local municipal authorities to advance project approvals Assist with environmental and land surveys required for the building site Finalise the development agreement and planning process with the exhibit design partner Liaise with the legal team on the licensing of entertainment properties to be featured in the attraction Minimum of 10 years' experience in commercial real estate development or construction management At least 5 to 7 years in a senior-level project management or owner's representative role, overseeing projects with budgets between $25 million and $100 million Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field; or equivalent demonstrated experience of 7+ years Proven track record managing the full construction lifecycle of large-scale, complex commercial projects Demonstrated ability to communicate at an executive level, confidently representing an organization to investors, lenders, architects, and government officials Strong financial acumen with direct experience in budget preparation, cost estimating, and financial reporting Experience preparing and evaluating vendor RFPs, managing contractor bids, and overseeing contract execution Excellent verbal and written communication skills with high attention to detail Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365 Self-starter who thrives in a lean, high-accountability environment and can independently implement processes and systems Effective negotiator with contractors, consultants, and suppliers Knowledge of contractor engagement and legal compliance in hiring 1099 contractors and managing vendor accounts Preferred Qualifications Previous experience working as an entrepreneur or small business owner in construction or building management Familiarity with Shelby County or Collierville municipal planning and permitting processes Experience working with or within startup or early-stage development organizations $150,000 – $200,000 per annum, commensurate with experience. Annual Bonus Paid Time Off Comprehensive Healthcare 401k Equal Employment Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Policy Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are Equal Opportunity Employers. For all positions, whether with Keller Executive Search or our clients, qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, skin color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other legally protected status. Commitment to Diversity: Keller Executive Search and its clients are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where all individuals are valued and respected. Reasonable Accommodations: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities and pregnant individuals. 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