Property Development Manager

Property Development Manager - Job Specification

Job Summary

The Property Development Manager is responsible for managing all aspects of property development projects

from inception through to completion. This role involves assisting with the site acquisition process from a

development perspective, feasibility assessment, planning applications, construction management, and final

handover, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.

Key Responsibilities

Project Management

• Manage multiple development projects simultaneously across various stages

• Develop and maintain detailed project plans, timelines, and critical path schedules

• Coordinate all aspects of the development process from feasibility to practical completion

• Monitor project budgets, cash flow, and financial performance

• Prepare regular progress reports for the Partners and any associated stakeholders/businesses

• Identify and mitigate project risks and issues proactively

• Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to specification

Site Feasibility & Acquisition

• Assist with potential development opportunities

• Conduct site appraisals and feasibility studies including cost plans

• Perform due diligence including site investigations, surveys, and assisting with legal checks

• Prepare detailed development appraisals and investment proposals

Planning & Design

• Manage the planning application process from pre-application to determination

• Liaise with planning authorities, consultants, and statutory bodies

• Coordinate design teams including architects, engineers, and consultants

• Review and approve architectural designs and technical specifications

• Ensure compliance with building regulations and planning conditions

• Negotiate Section 106 agreements and planning obligations

• Handle planning appeals where necessary

Procurement & Contract Management

• Oversee and assist in the preparation of tender documentation and procurement processes

• Evaluate contractor and consultant submissions

• Negotiate contract terms and appoint contractors

• Oversee and assist in the preparation of JCT or other construction contracts

• Control and oversee any contract variations and extension of time claims

• Ensure competitive pricing and value for money

Construction Management

• Monitor construction progress against programme and budget

• Oversee and attend site meetings with contractors and consultants

• Review and approve payment applications and valuations

• Inspect quality of workmanship and materials

• Oversee the management and the resolution of site issues and defects

• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations

• Coordinate practical completion and snagging processes

Stakeholder Management

• Build and maintain relationships with all project related parties

• Liaise with local authorities, planning officers, and councillors• Communicate with local communities and manage public consultations

• Coordinate with legal advisors, surveyors, project team and financial institutions

• Work closely with operational teams

• Provide updates to Partners and investors if required

Financial Management

• Prepare and manage project budgets and cost plans

• Monitor expenditure and authorise payments

• Conduct cost-benefit analysis and value engineering

• Prepare and review financial forecasts and cashflow projections

• Maximise project returns and profitability

• Manage drawdowns from development finance facilities

Required Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Real Estate, Property Development, Construction Management, Surveying, or

related field

• Chartered status (MRICS, CIOB, RTPI) or working towards chartership

Experience

• Minimum 5 years' experience in property development or related field

• Proven track record of successfully delivering property development projects

• Experience managing projects with values of £5m+

• Knowledge of commercial development sectors

Technical Knowledge

• Comprehensive understanding of the development process

• Strong knowledge of planning system and building regulations

• Experience with development appraisals and financial modelling

• Understanding of construction methods, contracts (JCT), and procurement

• Familiarity with development finance and funding structures

• Knowledge of property law, land transactions, and title issues

• Contract administration and risk management

• Problem-solving and decision-making abilities

• Strategic thinking and commercial acumen

• Project delivery and execution

• Financial and analytical skills

• Negotiation and influencing

• Leadership and stakeholder engagement

• Technical property development knowledge and use of associated technology

• Risk management and problem-solving

• Communication and relationship building

Soft Skills

• Excellent communication and presentation skills

• Strong leadership and team collaboration

• Ability to manage multiple priorities under pressure

• High attention to detail and quality standards

• Strategic thinking and creative problem-solving

• Relationship building and stakeholder management

Success Metrics

• Projects delivered on time and within budget

• Profit margins and return on investment achieved

• Number of units or square footage delivered annually• Planning approval success rate

• Quality standards and defect rates

• Stakeholder satisfaction scores

• Health and safety record

• Cost savings and value engineering delivered

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in Real Estate Development or related discipline

• Full MRICS, CIOB, or RTPI chartered status

• Experience with sustainable development and BREEAM/LEED standards

• Experience with mixed-use, brownfield, or regeneration schemes

• Understanding of renewable energy and modern construction methods

• Full UK driving license

Working Conditions

• Office-based with regular site visits required

• Travel to sites, meetings, and events

• Some evening and weekend work for site inspections or meetings

• Valid UK driving license required

• PPE and site safety equipment provided

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary: £50,000 - £100,000 (dependent on experience)

• Performance-related bonus

• Pension scheme

• Professional membership fees paid

• Continuing professional development support

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit the below:

• Current CV outlining relevant project experience

• Cover letter detailing suitability for the role

• Portfolio of completed projects (optional)