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