Lead Real Estate Developer

Placements24; George; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive salary

Profit participation

Company car or car allowance

Relocation assistance

Executive health, dental, vision

Retirement plan with matching

Travel opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Real Estate Developer in George, Western Cape, to lead end-to-end development projects from concept through sale or lease-up. You will drive feasibility, design, construction oversight and market strategies while managing timelines and budgets.

The role requires a strategic, results-driven leader with deep SA regulatory knowledge and a track record of delivering complex developments in a dynamic market.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of progressive real estate development experience with a strong project portfolio.
• Expertise in land acquisition, financing, site planning, and construction management.
• In-depth knowledge of South African property development regulations, zoning and permits.
• Strong financial modeling and ability to structure complex deals.
• Leadership, negotiation and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience leading multidisciplinary teams and external consultants.
• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field; Master’s preferred.

Responsibilities

• Identify and evaluate land acquisition opportunities.
• Conduct feasibility studies including market analysis and risk assessment.
• Oversee design and planning, ensuring zoning/building code compliance.
• Manage end-to-end development from inception to completion.
• Build relationships with government, communities and investors.
• Secure permits, approvals and financing for projects.
• Coordinate with architects, engineers, contractors and consultants.
• Develop and manage project budgets with strict cost control.
• Develop marketing and sales strategies for completed projects.
• Stay abreast of market trends and new development technologies.

Skills

Leadership

Negotiation

Communication

Financial modeling

Project management software

Analytical skills

Stakeholder management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning, Real Estate, Civil Engineering, Finance, or related field

Master's degree preferred

Tools

MS Project

Excel / Financial analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a visionary real estate development firm, is actively seeking a highly experienced and results-oriented Lead Real Estate Developer to spearhead significant projects in George, Western Cape . This is a critical leadership role responsible for the entire lifecycle of development projects, from conception and feasibility studies to design, construction oversight, and ultimate sale or lease-up. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of urban planning, zoning regulations, construction management, and financial modeling within the South African context. You will be responsible for identifying prime development opportunities, building strong relationships with stakeholders, and driving projects to successful completion while adhering to strict timelines and budgets. This position offers the chance to shape the urban landscape of George and contribute to high-impact developments. We are looking for a strategic thinker with a proven ability to manage complex projects, navigate challenges, and deliver exceptional results. Your leadership will be crucial in guiding multidisciplinary teams and ensuring the successful execution of our client's ambitious development pipeline. The role demands a proactive approach to market analysis and an innovative mindset to create sustainable and profitable real estate ventures in the beautiful Western Cape region.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify and evaluate potential land acquisition opportunities for real estate development projects.
• Conduct comprehensive feasibility studies, including market analysis, financial modeling, and risk assessment.
• Oversee the design and planning stages, ensuring compliance with zoning laws and building codes.
• Manage the entire development process from inception to completion, including site preparation, construction, and marketing.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with government authorities, community stakeholders, and investors.
• Negotiate and secure all necessary permits, approvals, and financing for projects.
• Supervise and coordinate with architects, engineers, contractors, and other consultants.
• Develop and manage project budgets, ensuring cost control and adherence to financial targets.
• Develop marketing and sales strategies for completed projects.
• Stay abreast of market trends, industry best practices, and new development technologies.

Requirements

• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in real estate development, with a strong portfolio of successfully completed projects.
• Proven expertise in land acquisition, project financing, site planning, and construction management.
• In-depth knowledge of South African property development regulations, zoning laws, and permitting processes.
• Exceptional financial modeling and analytical skills, with a demonstrated ability to structure complex deals.
• Strong leadership, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Experience managing multidisciplinary teams and external consultants.
• Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning, Real Estate, Civil Engineering, Finance, or a related field; Master's degree preferred.
• Proficiency in project management software and financial analysis tools.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet tight deadlines in the George area.
• A deep understanding of the Western Cape property market dynamics.

Benefits

• Highly competitive executive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Significant profit participation in development projects.
• Executive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous retirement plan with matching contributions.
• Company car or car allowance.
• Opportunities for professional growth and executive leadership training.
• Relocation assistance may be provided for qualified candidates.
• The chance to shape iconic developments in George and the surrounding Western Cape .
• A dynamic and forward-thinking work culture.
• Travel opportunities for site visits and industry events.