Property Development Manager

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based incentives

Profit-sharing opportunities

Comprehensive medical aid

Provident fund

Equity participation in projects

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a strategic Property Development Manager to oversee projects in and around Pietermaritzburg. You will manage the full development lifecycle from concept through handover, with emphasis on urban planning, construction management and stakeholder engagement.

The role requires strong financial modelling, budget control and the ability to coordinate cross-functional teams in a hybrid environment within KwaZulu-Natal.

Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years in property development with a proven track record.
• Strong understanding of zoning, land use and finances.
• Experience in multi-project management and hybrids work models.
• Excellent negotiation and leadership capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Identify and secure land development opportunities in Pietermaritzburg and surrounding KwaZulu-Natal.
• Conduct feasibility studies, market analysis, and financial modelling.
• Lead design and planning with architects, engineers, and consultants.
• Manage procurement, tendering and contractor selection.
• Oversee construction, budgets, and on-time delivery to quality standards.
• Secure planning permissions and regulatory approvals; manage stakeholders.

Skills

Property development

Urban planning

Construction management

Financial modelling

Stakeholder engagement

Leadership

Negotiation

Project management software

Regulatory understanding

Team coordination

Education

Degree in Property Development

Urban Planning

Civil Engineering

Architecture

Tools

MS Project

Primavera P6

Excel

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent property development firm with a growing portfolio, is seeking a strategic and experienced Property Development Manager to oversee projects in and around Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. This role requires a seasoned professional to manage the entire development lifecycle, from initial concept and feasibility studies through to design, construction, and final handover. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of urban planning, construction management, financial modelling, and stakeholder engagement. You will be responsible for identifying new development opportunities, securing permits and approvals, managing project budgets and timelines, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality developments that meet market demand and profitability objectives. This is a critical role for driving growth in the vibrant Pietermaritzburg real estate market.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify, evaluate and secure new land acquisition and development opportunities within Pietermaritzburg and the surrounding KwaZulu-Natal region.
• Conduct comprehensive feasibility studies, market analysis and financial modelling to assess project viability.
• Lead the design and planning phases, collaborating with architects, engineers and consultants.
• Manage the procurement process, including tendering and contractor selection.
• Oversee the construction phase, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.
• Secure all necessary planning permissions, building permits and regulatory approvals.
• Manage relationships with all stakeholders, including landowners, local authorities, financiers, contractors and potential buyers/tenants.
• Develop and manage project budgets, cash flow projections and risk mitigation strategies.
• Ensure compliance with all legal environmental and safety regulations throughout the development process.
• Prepare regular project status reports for senior management and investors.

Requirements

• A degree in Property Development, Urban Planning, Civil Engineering, Architecture or a related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in property development, with a demonstrable track record of successfully delivered projects.
• Strong understanding of the development process, including zoning, land use, construction and finance.
• Proven ability to manage multiple complex projects concurrently in the Pietermaritzburg area.
• Excellent financial acumen, with experience in project finance, budgeting and cost control.
• Strong negotiation, communication and leadership skills.
• Proficiency in project management software and financial modelling tools.
• Familiarity with local planning policies and building regulations in KwaZulu-Natal.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid model, coordinating activities both on-site and remotely.
• Membership in a relevant professional body (e.g., SACPCMP, SAIBD) is advantageous.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive executive salary package with performance-based incentives and profit-sharing opportunities.
• Benefits include comprehensive medical aid, a generous provident fund and potential for equity participation in projects.
• You will have significant autonomy and responsibility, working on exciting and diverse development projects across Pietermaritzburg.
• Opportunities for professional growth, continuous learning and advancement within a respected development firm are abundant.
• Join a forward-thinking company committed to shaping the urban landscape of KwaZulu-Natal.