Director of Development

Ideal Homes; Norman (OK); On-site; USD 85,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

Ideal Homes in Norman, OK is seeking a Development Manager to own the full lifecycle of community projects from land acquisition through permit-ready completion. You will drive strategy, manage cross-functional teams, and coordinate with municipalities, engineers, and contractors to execute on time and within scope.

The role requires strong analytical skills, negotiation prowess, and the ability to lead multiple development projects simultaneously while maintaining company standards and building

Qualifications

• Experience in land development from acquisition through construction.
• Ability to analyze market data and identify growth opportunities.
• Excellent negotiation and relationship-building skills.
• Proficiency with mapping tools and Microsoft Office.

Responsibilities

• Negotiate land purchases, contracts, and development agreements.
• Identify, research, and pursue new land opportunities.
• Monitor all phases of development construction and permit readiness.
• Coordinate with contractors, engineers, and utilities.
• Lead development meetings and cross-functional collaboration.
• Maintain and analyze data on land opportunities, contracts, and market trends.

Skills

Land acquisition

Market analytics

Negotiation

Project management

Team leadership

Stakeholder management

MS Office

Mapping tools

Tools

Google Earth

NearMap

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Position Summary:This position is responsible for the full lifecycle of community development projects—from sourcing and acquiring land to overseeing development construction through permit-ready completion. This role integrates strategic land acquisition, market analytics, contract negotiation, and field execution, while also leading internal teams and maintaining strong relationships with external stakeholders.Performance Objectives:· Source, evaluate, and secure new land opportunities in existing and emerging markets· Oversee all phases of land development from acquisition through permit-ready stage· Ensure development projects are completed on time, within scope, and aligned with company standards· Develop and maintain relationships with municipalities, engineers, landowners, and industry partners· Utilize market data and analytics to identify growth opportunities and guide acquisition strategy· Lead and support development team members to ensure consistent execution and performanceKnowledge, Skills & AbilitiesStrong understanding of land development processes from acquisition through constructionWorking knowledge of construction drawings, utilities, and civil engineering conceptsExperience with real estate contracts, negotiation, and deal structuringAbility to analyze market data and identify strategic growth opportunitiesProficiency in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Excel, Word) and mapping tools (e.g., Google Earth, NearMap)Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skillsStrong organizational and time management abilitiesAbility to lead teams and manage multiple projects simultaneouslyKey Responsibilities:Land Acquisition & StrategyNegotiate land purchases, contracts, and development agreementsIdentify, research, and pursue new land opportunities (on- and off-market)Conduct market analysis using mapping tools and data sources to guide decisionsPresent land opportunities and recommendations to leadershipMaintain pipeline of acquisition opportunities and meet defined contract goalsDevelopment Project OversightMonitor all phases of development construction using checklists, scopes of work, and site visitsEnsure projects progress from land purchase through permit-ready status on scheduleCoordinate with contractors, engineers, and utility providersEnsure installation of utilities (electric, gas, water, telecom) prior to home closingsOversee erosion control, signage, infrastructure, and landscaping of developmentsConduct regular site visits and maintain active field presenceTeam Leadership & CollaborationTrain, mentor, and support Community Development Project ManagersLead or participate in development meetings, land meetings, and planning sessionsCollaborate cross-functionally with construction, sales, and leadership teamsProvide problem-solving support across active development projectsTeam Leadership & CollaborationLead due diligence processes including feasibility, utilities, and engineering considerationsMaintain and analyze data on land opportunities, contracts, and market trendsBuild and manage mapping and tracking systems for land, utilities, and demographicsStay current on industry trends, regulations, and development best practicesProcess & Relationship ManagementDevelop and maintain development policies, procedures, and documentationBuild strong relationships with city officials, engineers, landowners, and contractorsRepresent the company at planning commission, city council, and industry eventsMaintain organized records of meetings, contracts, and development activitiesOther duties as assignedQualifications:One to two years of project management experience.One to two years of land development and/or building experience.Working knowledge of Microsoft applications such as Outlook, Excel, and Word.Proven ability to develop strong, personal relationships with a variety of people.Evidence of strong organizational abilities.Evidence of excellent oral and written communication skills.Evidence of self-motivation.Days/Hours:Monday through Friday, 8am 5pm, plus evenings and weekends as required.FLSA Status:ExemptPhysical DemandsThe physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to use hands to handle or feel and to reach with hands and arms. The employee is often required to stand and walk. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.