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# Director, Real Estate Development with a Commercial Firm – Miami, FL



Role Overview for Director, Real Estate Development with a Commercial Firm – Miami, FL
JRG Partners is proud to represent a premier, privately-held commercial real estate investment and development firm seeking a visionary and results-driven Director of Real Estate Development to join their executive team in Miami, Florida. This is a career-defining opportunity to take a pivotal leadership role in shaping the future of one of the most dynamic and rapidly evolving urban landscapes in the world. Our client is renowned for developing iconic, high-quality commercial, mixed-use, and hospitality projects that not only generate exceptional returns but also enhance the communities in which they are built.
As the Director of Real Estate Development, you will be the driving force behind the entire development lifecycle, from initial concept and site acquisition through to stabilization and disposition. You will be entrusted with managing a portfolio of complex, large-scale projects, navigating the intricate processes of financing, entitlements, design, and construction. This role demands a unique blend of financial acumen, market insight, strategic thinking, and unparalleled leadership. You will be operating at the forefront of South Florida’s dynamic real estate landscape, leveraging your expertise to identify and capitalize on new development opportunities that align with the company’s strategic growth objectives.
The ideal candidate is a seasoned professional with a proven track record of delivering successful commercial real estate projects in a major metropolitan market, possessing a deep understanding of the financial, legal, and operational facets of development. You will be a key player in the firm’s expansion, mentoring a high-performing team and fostering critical relationships with investors, city officials, architects, contractors, and other key stakeholders. If you are a passionate and ambitious leader ready to make a significant impact on the Miami skyline, we invite you to explore this exceptional opportunity.
Key Responsibilities of Director, Real Estate Development with a Commercial Firm – Miami, FL
The Director of Real Estate Development will have comprehensive responsibility for managing all aspects of the development process. Your duties will be broad and strategic, requiring both high-level oversight and hands-on involvement.
Strategy, Sourcing, and Acquisition

Spearhead the identification, evaluation, and sourcing of new development and acquisition opportunities across various commercial asset classes including office, retail, and mixed-use.
Conduct in-depth market research and analysis to identify emerging trends, submarket potential, and competitive positioning to inform investment strategy.
Lead the underwriting process, developing complex financial models, pro-formas, and cash flow analyses to determine project feasibility and potential returns (IRR, ROI, Equity Multiple).
Oversee all aspects of the due diligence process, including physical, environmental, legal, and financial assessments, coordinating with internal teams and external consultants.
Negotiate letters of intent (LOI), purchase and sale agreements (PSA), and other critical acquisition documents with brokers, sellers, and legal counsel.

Entitlements, Design, and Pre-Construction

Develop and execute the entitlement strategy, leading the process of securing all necessary zoning changes, variances, permits, and governmental approvals.
Act as the primary liaison with municipal and state agencies, planning departments, and community groups, representing the company’s interests in public hearings and meetings.
Manage the selection and coordination of the project design team, including architects, engineers, landscape architects, and other consultants.
Oversee the design development process, ensuring that the project vision is realized while adhering to budget, schedule, and quality standards.
Lead pre-construction activities, including value engineering, constructability reviews, and the development of detailed project budgets and schedules.

Financing and Project Execution

Structure and secure project financing, including senior debt, mezzanine financing, and equity capital. Prepare comprehensive investment memorandums and present opportunities to lenders and equity partners.
Manage the selection and negotiation of contracts with general contractors and construction managers.
Provide executive oversight throughout the construction phase, monitoring progress against schedule and budget, and ensuring the highest standards of quality and safety.
Lead regular project meetings with all stakeholders to review progress, identify risks, and proactively solve complex problems.
Manage the project budget meticulously, approving invoices, tracking costs, and preparing monthly draw requests and financial reports for investors and lenders.

Leasing, Marketing, and Leadership

Collaborate with internal and external leasing teams to develop and implement effective marketing and leasing strategies to achieve stabilization and occupancy goals.
Provide leadership, mentorship, and guidance to a team of development managers, analysts, and support staff, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and excellence.
Prepare and present regular, detailed project updates and performance reports to the executive leadership team and investment committee.
Cultivate and maintain a strong network of industry relationships with brokers, investors, lenders, contractors, consultants, and public officials.

Requirements for the Director, Real Estate Development with a Commercial Firm – Miami, FL
We are seeking a candidate with a distinguished career in commercial real estate development who possesses the technical expertise and leadership qualities necessary to excel in this demanding role.
Educational & Professional Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Real Estate, Finance, Business, Architecture, Urban Planning, or a related field is required. A Master’s degree (MBA or MSRE) is highly preferred.
A minimum of 10-15 years of progressive, hands-on experience in full-cycle commercial real estate development, with a significant portion of that time spent in a leadership capacity.
A demonstrable track record of successfully completed projects, specifically within the commercial office, retail, and/or large-scale mixed-use sectors.
Extensive experience working within the South Florida market is strongly preferred, with an established network and a deep understanding of local market dynamics, entitlement processes, and political landscape.

Technical Skills & Competencies

Expert-level proficiency in financial modeling, underwriting, and analysis. Mastery of Microsoft Excel is essential; experience with Argus Enterprise is highly desirable.
Comprehensive understanding of real estate finance, including complex debt and equity structures.
Proven expertise in managing the entitlement and permitting process in a complex urban environment.
Strong knowledge of construction means and methods, project management principles, and contract administration.
Exceptional negotiation skills, with a proven ability to successfully negotiate complex legal and financial agreements.

Leadership & Personal Attributes

Outstanding leadership and team management skills with the ability to inspire, motivate, and develop talent.
Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to articulate a clear vision and influence a wide range of stakeholders.
A strategic and entrepreneurial mindset, capable of identifying unseen opportunities and navigating ambiguity.
Superior analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a detail-oriented approach to managing complex projects.
High level of integrity, professionalism, and a strong work ethic.

Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier talent by offering a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package. This includes:
Highly Competitive Base Salary
A compelling base salary commensurate with experience and market standards.
Lucrative Bonus Structure
A significant performance-based annual bonus and potential for project-specific bonuses tied to successful development milestones.
Long-Term Incentive/Equity Potential
The opportunity for meaningful participation in the long-term value creation of the projects you lead.
Comprehensive Health and Wellness Package
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your eligible dependents, along with wellness programs.
Retirement Savings Plan
A 401(k) plan with a generous company match to help you plan for your future.
Generous Paid Time Off
A substantial paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick days, and paid company holidays.
Professional Development
Support for continued education, industry certifications, and attendance at key real estate conferences and events.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package may be available for exceptional candidates.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is exclusively managing the search for this pivotal Director of Real Estate Development role. If you are a qualified and interested candidate whose experience aligns with the requirements outlined above, we encourage you to apply. To be considered, please submit your confidential resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant project experience and career accomplishments.
For more information about our expertise in this sector and to explore other opportunities, please visit the JRG Partners’ Real Estate Development practice area page. We look forward to reviewing your application and discussing how you can contribute to our client’s continued success and growth in the vibrant Miami market.