Commercial Property Development Manager

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company vehicle and fuel allowance

Performance bonuses

Career growth opportunities

Medical aid and retirement benefits

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Commercial Property Development Manager to drive major projects in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. You will lead site selection, due diligence, design, budgeting, and financing, ensuring successful handover and leasing targets.

The role requires 6–8 years in commercial development, strong finance acumen, and excellent stakeholder engagement within KwaZulu-Natal. A dynamic leader with strategic vision is essential.

Qualifications

• Relevant degree in Property Development, Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field.
• 6–8 years of progressive experience in commercial property development.
• Proven track record delivering complex development projects from inception to completion.
• Strong knowledge of development finance, construction methods, and SA building codes/regulations.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience in site acquisition, land assembly, and planning approvals in KwaZulu-Natal.

Responsibilities

• Identify and evaluate sites for commercial development with feasibility studies and market analyses.
• Manage acquisition process including due diligence and purchase agreements.
• Oversee design and planning with architects, engineers and urban planners.
• Prepare and manage project budgets, ensuring viability and cost control.
• Appoint and manage contractors, consultants, and service providers to meet timelines.
• Obtain permits, approvals, and zoning from local authorities in Durban.
• Oversee construction phase, monitor progress and safety compliance.
• Coordinate leasing and marketing to achieve pre-development leasing targets.
• Coordinate project financing with banks and investors.
• Ensure handover and post-completion support, addressing defects.

Skills

Project management

Negotiation

Communication

Stakeholder engagement

Financial modeling

Education

Property Development / Construction Management / Engineering / Architecture degree

Tools

MS Project

Excel

Financial modeling

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished developer and investor in the commercial real estate sector, is seeking a seasoned Commercial Property Development Manager to spearhead key projects in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. This role is central to identifying, acquiring, and developing prime commercial properties, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. You will manage the entire development lifecycle, from initial concept and feasibility studies through to construction, leasing, and final handover. This is a fantastic opportunity for a proactive leader to contribute to the evolving urban landscape of Durban and play a significant role in shaping its commercial future. The successful candidate will thrive in a fast-paced environment and possess a keen understanding of development finance, project management, and stakeholder engagement within the KwaZulu-Natal property market. Join a team that is committed to excellence and innovation in property development.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify and evaluate potential sites for commercial property development, conducting thorough feasibility studies and market analyses.
• Manage the acquisition process, including negotiation of purchase agreements and due diligence.
• Oversee the design and planning stages, working closely with architects, engineers, and urban planners.
• Prepare and manage project budgets, ensuring financial viability and controlling costs throughout the development process.
• Appoint and manage contractors, consultants, and other service providers, ensuring quality of work and adherence to timelines.
• Obtain all necessary permits, approvals, and zoning regulations from local authorities in Durban.
• Manage the construction phase, monitoring progress, resolving site issues, and ensuring compliance with safety standards.
• Liaise with leasing and marketing teams to secure tenants and achieve pre-development leasing targets.
• Coordinate project financing, liaising with financial institutions and investors.
• Ensure successful project handover and post-completion support, addressing any defects or issues.

Requirements

• A relevant degree in Property Development, Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field.
• A minimum of 6-8 years of progressive experience in commercial property development.
• Proven track record of successfully delivering complex commercial development projects from inception to completion.
• Strong understanding of development finance, construction methods, and relevant South African building codes and regulations.
• Excellent project management, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Experience in site acquisition, land assembly, and planning approvals in KwaZulu-Natal.
• Proficiency in project management software and financial modeling.
• Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders, including government bodies, investors, and contractors.
• Strategic thinker with strong problem-solving capabilities.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel as required within Durban and the region.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary package reflecting significant experience.
• Performance-based bonuses and profit-sharing opportunities.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Company vehicle and fuel allowance.
• Significant opportunities for career advancement within a growing organization.
• Exposure to landmark development projects in Durban.
• A collaborative and professional working environment.
• Generous annual leave.
• Contribution to the shaping of Durban's urban and commercial landscape.