1154 Vice President of Development

Director of Vice President of Development – Multifamily & Luxury Residential Communities (title depends on experience level)

Position Summary
The Director of Vice President of Development will lead the planning and execution of real estate development projects from concept through delivery. This executive role focuses on ground-up development of multifamily housing and resort-style luxury single-family communities in both established and emerging markets. Responsibilities include land acquisition, site selection, entitlements, zoning, financial modeling, architectural oversight, vertical construction management, and stakeholder engagement. This position oversees a team of project managers and ensures timely, cost-effective delivery of high-quality residential real estate developments.

Essential Functions
Note: While these are primary responsibilities, the role may include other duties essential to real estate success. Reasonable accommodations will be provided where required.

• Lead site selection, market analysis, and due diligence for multifamily and single-family residential projects

• Analyze and manage entitlement risk, zoning regulations, environmental impact reports, soil studies, and surveys

• Build comprehensive development pro formas and business plans aligned with investment goals

• Negotiate and close land acquisitions with legal and finance teams

• Select and manage architects, engineers, and consultants for project design

• Obtain all necessary government approvals and permits for land development and vertical construction

• Oversee architectural design from concept through construction documents

• Manage construction pricing, value engineering, bidding, and contractor negotiations

• Track budgets, project schedules, KPIs, and milestones using internal reporting tools

• Represent ownership with local governments, utility providers, public agencies, and private partners

• Travel to job sites as needed to oversee project progress and team performance

• Provide leadership, mentorship, and accountability to a high-performing development team

• Ensure adherence to all real estate regulations, agency requirements, and safety standards

Supervisory Responsibilities
Direct oversight of a cross-functional team of real estate project managers and analysts, with responsibility for hiring, goal setting, reviews, and development planning.

Travel Requirements
Up to 25% travel required to project locations across multiple states and regions.

Education, Experience & Skill Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Real Estate, Construction Management, Architecture, Engineering, or related field (Master’s preferred)

• 5–10 years of experience in real estate development, with a focus on multifamily and high-end residential communities

• Proven experience in land development, ground-up construction, and project lifecycle management

• Deep understanding of entitlement processes, zoning, planning commissions, and public hearings

• Strong background in construction management, cost control, and schedule forecasting

• Advanced financial and analytical skills with proficiency in Excel and development models

• Team-oriented leader with excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Proficient in Microsoft Office and project management tools

• Valid California driver’s license and insured vehicle

• Able to handle confidential information with discretion

• Fluency in English required

Working Conditions

• Office-based with frequent on-site inspections at residential developments

• Intermittent movement between job sites and office locations

• Regular collaboration with stakeholders, consultants, agencies, and community partners

• Availability for extended hours, weekends, or emergencies as needed

• Exposure to construction environments, dust, outdoor weather, and physical hazards

Physical Demands

• Ability to lift up to 20 pounds

• Routine walking, standing, bending, climbing, and navigating construction zones

• Must be able to remain seated and focused for extended periods

• Ability to manage high-pressure situations and dynamic project timelines

Equal Employment Opportunity
Our Client is committed to equal employment opportunity and prohibits discrimination in all employment practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetics, or other legally protected status. Our Client complies with all applicable federal, state, and local employment laws.

Other Duties
This job description is not exhaustive and may evolve. Responsibilities may shift based on organizational and market needs.

Compensation: 165-250K plus performance bonuses and benefits. 

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Contact: Gillian Executive Search, Kipp Gillian, kgillian@gessearch.com 866-600-0437 x 1