General Manager, Development Management - Real Estate

About the Role

This position requires leadership and oversight of the real estate development portfolio spanning the complete lifecycle, from idea generation and land planning to financial modeling, design, pre-construction, execution, and handover. The role directs the strategic planning for development and business, ensuring alignment with financial and commercial objectives, managing master planning and public realm works, and coordinating with authorities, consultants, and internal teams to deliver projects on schedule, within budget, and scope.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Drive portfolio-wide development strategies and identify prospective real estate opportunities consistent with overall corporate goals.
• Manage feasibility studies, land use planning, and the assessment of Highest and Best Use (HBU) for sites.
• Oversee business plan development, detailed financial modeling, budgeting, and key investment criteria such as IRR, ROI, and NPV.
• Structure real estate deals and collaborate with financial partners to optimize funding models.
• Manage all phases of development including design, permitting, tendering, procurement, and construction in partnership with Project Management Offices.
• Review and approve master plans and architectural designs, ensuring compliance with CAD standards, sustainable practices, and quality in public spaces.
• Direct resource allocation for pre-construction activities and program management to ensure timely, compliant project completion.
• Integrate development outcomes with marketing, sales, and asset management to meet sales goals and operational readiness.
• Implement rigorous project scope control, manage financial and operational risks, and lead change management processes to address scheduling or cost deviations while maintaining standards.
• Make executive decisions to enforce strong governance over projects, cost controls, and quality assurance.
• Lead contract negotiations and administration with planners, consultants, contractors, and partners.
• Establish and maintain key relationships with municipal and governmental regulatory bodies to facilitate swift approvals.
• Drive business development initiatives, foster high-performing teams, and promote operational efficiency through leadership and mentoring.

Core Competencies and Expertise

• Strategic Development Planning, Business Planning, Program and Land Use Planning
• Financial Modeling, Real Estate Financing, Transactions, Budgeting, and Risk Management
• Pre-Construction Management, Master Planning, Sustainable Design, CAD, and Project Delivery
• Leadership, Stakeholder Management, Negotiation, Change Management, Risk Assessment, Executive Communication

Qualifications and Experience

• A Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Urban Planning, Civil Engineering, Real Estate Development, or Business Administration is required.
• A Master's degree (MBA or Master of Real Estate Development) or professional certifications like MRICS, PMP are preferred.
• At least 15 years of progressive experience in real estate development, including a minimum of 5 to 7 years in senior executive roles such as General Manager or Development Director.