Senior Real Estate Development Manager

Placements24; Richards Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Senior Real Estate Development Manager to lead large development projects remotely across South Africa. You will oversee the entire lifecycle from site acquisition and feasibility studies to design, construction, and completion, collaborating with architects, engineers, contractors, and authorities.

We value strategic thinkers with a proven track record in managing complex projects, budgets, and timelines.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Real Estate Development, Urban Planning, Architecture, Civil Engineering or related field.
• Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in real estate development or project management.
• Proven ability to lead large-scale, complex development projects.
• Strong financial acumen including budgeting, pro forma analysis and financing.
• Excellent knowledge of construction processes, codes and land use regulations.
• Proven leadership of cross-functional teams and stakeholder management.
• Proficiency in project management software and relevant tools.

Responsibilities

• Identify and evaluate development sites with feasibility studies and market analyses.
• Lead project teams from conception to completion across the lifecycle.
• Develop and manage detailed project budgets to meet financial objectives.
• Oversee design and planning with architects, engineers and consultants.
• Manage tendering and selection of contractors and service providers.
• Monitor construction progress, timelines, quality, and safety.
• Navigate zoning, permitting and entitlement processes.
• Develop and implement project marketing and sales strategies.
• Engage investors, lenders and key stakeholders.

Skills

Project management

Budgeting

Stakeholder management

Negotiation

Team leadership

Remote work

Financial analysis

Risk management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Real Estate Development or related field

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Project management software

Industry tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a visionary developer recognized for transforming urban landscapes, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Real Estate Development Manager to lead significant projects. This is a fully remote position, allowing you to contribute your expertise from anywhere in South Africa while driving impactful development initiatives. You will be responsible for the entire development lifecycle, from site acquisition and feasibility studies to design, construction, and project completion. This role requires a strategic thinker with a proven track record in managing complex real estate development projects, budgets, and timelines. You will collaborate with architects, engineers, contractors, and government officials to bring ambitious projects to fruition. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned professional to shape the future of real estate development in a flexible, remote-first work environment, contributing to prestigious projects in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify and evaluate potential development sites, conducting thorough feasibility studies and market analyses.
• Lead project teams through all phases of the development process, from conception to completion.
• Develop and manage detailed project budgets, ensuring financial objectives are met.
• Oversee the design and planning process, coordinating with architects, engineers, and consultants.
• Manage the tendering and selection of contractors and service providers.
• Monitor construction progress, ensuring adherence to timelines, quality standards, and safety regulations.
• Navigate zoning, permitting, and entitlement processes with local authorities.
• Develop and implement project marketing and sales strategies.
• Manage relationships with investors, lenders, and other key stakeholders.
• Stay informed of market trends, construction costs, and regulatory changes impacting development.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Real Estate Development, Urban Planning, Architecture, Civil Engineering, or a related field.
• Master's degree preferred.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in real estate development, project management, or a related role.
• Demonstrated success in managing large-scale, complex development projects from start to finish.
• Strong financial acumen, with experience in development budgeting, pro forma analysis, and financing.
• Excellent understanding of construction processes, building codes, and land use regulations.
• Proven ability to lead and motivate cross-functional teams.
• Exceptional negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Proficiency in project management software and relevant industry tools.
• Ability to work effectively in a remote environment, demonstrating strong self-discipline and organizational skills.
• Experience with developments in coastal regions or similar challenging environments is a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive executive compensation package, including a generous salary and potential for performance-based bonuses tied to project success. As a remote-first organization, you will enjoy the ultimate flexibility in your work location. Our client invests in your professional growth through continuous learning opportunities and exposure to cutting-edge development practices. You will work on landmark projects that leave a lasting legacy. Our client fosters a culture of innovation, collaboration, and high achievement. Join a team that is shaping the built environment and making a significant impact in KwaZulu-Natal and beyond.