Role Overview for Director, Real Estate Development with a National Developer – Denver, CO
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, vertically-integrated national real estate developer in their search for a Director of Real Estate Development. Based in their dynamic Denver, Colorado office, this pivotal role offers a unique opportunity to lead the charge on ground-up development projects, shaping the skyline and communities of one of America’s fastest-growing cities. Our client is a well-capitalized and highly respected firm with a diverse portfolio of award-winning projects across multifamily, mixed-use, and commercial asset classes. They are renowned for their commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainable development practices.
As the Director of Real Estate Development, you will be the driving force behind the entire development lifecycle, from initial site acquisition and underwriting to construction completion and stabilization. You will serve as the project quarterback, managing cross-functional teams, navigating complex entitlement processes, and ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget. This is a highly entrepreneurial role that requires a blend of financial acumen, market insight, project management expertise, and exceptional leadership. You will be instrumental in executing the company’s strategic growth plan for the Mountain West region, with a primary focus on the burgeoning Denver market. The ideal candidate is a seasoned development professional with a proven track record of successfully delivering complex, large-scale projects and a deep passion for creating exceptional places to live, work, and play.
Key Responsibilities of Director, Real Estate Development with a National Developer – Denver, CO
The Director will have comprehensive responsibility for managing all aspects of the development process. This includes, but is not limited to, the following:
Deal Sourcing and Feasibility
Actively source and identify new development opportunities through a robust network of brokers, landowners, and industry contacts. Conduct comprehensive market research and analysis to validate project viability. Lead the underwriting process, developing sophisticated financial models, pro-formas, and investment memoranda to assess risk and return profiles.
Due Diligence and Acquisition
Manage the entire due diligence process, including environmental, geotechnical, zoning, and legal reviews. Negotiate purchase and sale agreements (PSAs) and other transaction documents in collaboration with legal counsel.
Entitlements and Government Approvals
Spearhead the entitlement strategy, leading the project through all necessary public and private approval processes. This includes zoning changes, site plan approvals, and permitting. Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with city officials, community groups, and other key stakeholders.
Design and Pre-Construction Management
Select and manage the project design team, including architects, engineers, and consultants. Oversee the creation of design documents, from conceptual plans to construction drawings, ensuring alignment with the project’s vision, budget, and market demands. Lead value engineering efforts to optimize project costs without compromising quality.
Financial Management and Capitalization
Develop and manage detailed project budgets, schedules, and cash flow projections. Assist the capital markets team in securing debt and equity financing for projects. Prepare regular, detailed reports for senior leadership and investment partners on project status, budget variance, and key performance indicators.
Construction Oversight
Manage the general contractor selection process through competitive bidding and negotiation. Provide day-to-day oversight of construction activities, attending site meetings, resolving issues, and ensuring adherence to schedule, budget, and quality standards. Manage the change order and requisition payment process.
Marketing, Leasing, and Stabilization
Collaborate with internal and external marketing and leasing teams to develop and execute a comprehensive strategy for the project. Oversee the transition from construction completion to property management, ensuring a smooth handover and successful project stabilization or disposition.
Leadership and Mentorship
Provide strong leadership and mentorship to junior development staff, including analysts and project managers. Foster a collaborative and high-performance team environment. Represent the company at industry events and conferences, enhancing its brand and presence in the Denver market.
Requirements for the Director, Real Estate Development with a National Developer – Denver, CO
Candidates must possess a strong background in ground-up real estate development and a comprehensive understanding of the Denver market. The following qualifications are essential:
Experience
A minimum of 10-15 years of progressive experience in real estate development, with a significant portion of that time focused on ground-up projects. A proven track record of managing the full development lifecycle, from acquisition to stabilization, is required. Experience with multifamily, mixed-use, or office development is strongly preferred.
Education
A Bachelor’s degree in Real Estate, Finance, Business, Urban Planning, Architecture, or a related field is required. A Master’s degree (MBA or MSRE) is highly preferred.
Market Knowledge
Extensive experience and established relationships within the Denver metropolitan area are critical. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of the Denver MSA entitlement and zoning processes, key submarkets, and the competitive landscape.
Financial Acumen
Expert-level proficiency in financial modeling, underwriting, and analysis using Microsoft Excel and Argus. Must be able to build complex development pro-formas from scratch and articulate financial concepts clearly to various audiences.
Project Management Skills
Exceptional organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment. Meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to delivering high-quality work products.
Leadership and Communication
Demonstrated leadership ability with experience managing teams and consultants. Superior verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling investment narratives and present confidently to executive leadership, investors, and public officials.
Negotiation Skills
Proven ability to negotiate complex legal and financial documents, including PSAs, loan agreements, and construction contracts.
Personal Attributes
An entrepreneurial mindset, a proactive and results-oriented approach, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team. High level of integrity, strong work ethic, and a passion for the built environment.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client offers a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation package designed to attract and retain top talent. This includes:
Competitive Base Salary
A compelling base salary commensurate with experience.
Annual Performance Bonus
A significant annual bonus potential based on individual and company performance.
Long-Term Incentive Plan
Opportunity for equity participation and/or co-investment in development projects, providing a direct stake in the value you create.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents.
Retirement Savings
A 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match.
Paid Time Off
A generous policy for paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and company holidays.
Professional Development
Strong support for continuing education, industry certifications, and conference attendance to foster career growth.
Work Environment
A dynamic, collaborative, and entrepreneurial work culture in a modern office space.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is the exclusive recruitment partner for this confidential search. To be considered for this exceptional opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and qualifications. All inquiries and applications will be held in the strictest confidence.
We encourage all qualified candidates to explore this role further by visiting our Real Estate & Construction practice area page to learn more about our expertise in this sector. We look forward to connecting with you.
Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
