JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, forward-thinking commercial real estate firm based in Miami, Florida. Our client is a dominant force in the market, renowned for developing iconic, high-quality commercial, mixed-use, and hospitality projects that redefine urban landscapes. With a robust pipeline of transformative projects and a commitment to innovation and sustainable development, they are seeking a visionary and results-driven leader to join their executive team as the Head of Real Estate Development. This is a rare opportunity to steer the development strategy of a major player and leave a lasting legacy on one of the world’s most dynamic cities.
Role Overview for Head of Real Estate Development with a Commercial Firm – Miami, FL
The Head of Real Estate Development will serve as the strategic leader of the company’s development arm, reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer. This executive will have full P&L responsibility and oversight for the entire development lifecycle, from initial site identification and acquisition through to entitlement, design, construction, and successful stabilization. The ideal candidate is a seasoned expert with a profound understanding of the South Florida real estate market, particularly within the commercial sector. You will lead a talented team of development professionals, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and innovation. Your primary objective will be to execute the existing development pipeline while simultaneously identifying and securing new opportunities that align with the company’s long-term growth and investment strategy. This role requires a unique blend of financial acumen, market intuition, leadership prowess, and an unwavering commitment to quality and execution. You will be instrumental in shaping the future of our client’s portfolio and contributing to the evolution of Miami’s dynamic commercial real estate market.
Key Responsibilities of Head of Real Estate Development with a Commercial Firm – Miami, FL
The Head of Real Estate Development will be tasked with a wide range of strategic and operational duties. Success in this role will be measured by the profitable and timely delivery of complex development projects. Key responsibilities include:
Strategic Leadership & Vision
Develop and implement a comprehensive development strategy that aligns with the company’s overall business objectives. Provide visionary leadership to the development team, setting clear goals, mentoring staff, and fostering a high-performance culture. Represent the company in the market, building and maintaining relationships with key industry stakeholders, investors, and community leaders.
Deal Sourcing & Acquisitions
Proactively identify, evaluate, and pursue new development opportunities, including land acquisitions and value-add redevelopment projects. Lead the due diligence process, conducting thorough financial analysis, market research, and risk assessment to ensure the viability and profitability of potential projects. Negotiate complex deal structures, purchase agreements, and joint venture partnerships.
Entitlement & Pre-Development
Masterfully navigate the complex entitlement and permitting processes within Miami-Dade County and other relevant jurisdictions. Build and maintain strong relationships with government officials, planning boards, and community groups to secure necessary approvals. Oversee the creation of project concepts, feasibility studies, and initial design development.
Financial Management & Analysis
Take full ownership of project budgets, proformas, and financial models. Develop and manage sophisticated financial models to underwrite new opportunities and monitor the performance of ongoing projects. Secure project financing, including debt and equity, and manage relationships with lenders and capital partners. Provide regular, detailed reporting to the executive team and investors on project status, budget adherence, and key performance indicators.
Design & Construction Oversight
Lead the selection and management of architects, engineers, general contractors, and other third-party consultants. Provide critical input during the design process to ensure projects are aesthetically compelling, functional, and financially efficient. Oversee all construction activities, ensuring projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality and safety.
Project Management & Execution
Manage all phases of the development process from inception to completion. Develop and maintain detailed project schedules, track milestones, and proactively identify and mitigate potential risks and delays. Ensure seamless coordination between all internal departments (legal, finance, asset management, leasing) and external partners.
Leasing & Marketing Strategy
Collaborate closely with the leasing and marketing teams to develop and execute strategies that ensure the successful pre-leasing, lease-up, and stabilization of development projects. Provide input on market positioning, branding, and tenant mix to maximize asset value.
Stakeholder & Community Relations
Act as the primary point of contact for all project stakeholders. Cultivate positive relationships with local communities, ensuring that development projects are well-received and contribute positively to the surrounding neighborhood.
Requirements for the Head of Real Estate Development with a Commercial Firm – Miami, FL
The successful candidate will be a proven leader with an impeccable track record of delivering large-scale commercial real estate projects. The specific qualifications we are seeking include:
Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in commercial real estate development, with at least 7 years in a senior leadership role overseeing multiple projects and direct reports. A demonstrable track record of successfully completed projects in urban environments, with a strong preference for experience in the South Florida market.
Education
A Bachelor’s degree in Real Estate, Finance, Business, Architecture, or a related field is required. A Master’s degree (MBA, MRED, or similar) is highly preferred.
Market Expertise
Deep and nuanced understanding of the Miami-Dade real estate market, including zoning codes, entitlement processes, political landscapes, and key market players. Established network of local contacts, including brokers, architects, contractors, and government officials.
Financial Acumen
Expert-level proficiency in real estate finance, including complex financial modeling, underwriting, risk analysis, and project capitalization. Proven experience in securing debt and equity financing for large-scale developments.
Leadership Skills
Exceptional leadership and team management skills. A history of building, mentoring, and leading high-performing development teams. The ability to inspire confidence, motivate others, and make decisive, well-reasoned decisions.
Negotiation & Communication
Superior negotiation skills with a proven ability to close complex transactions. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present compelling arguments and complex information clearly and concisely to diverse audiences, including investors, partners, and public officials.
Strategic Thinking
A strategic and entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to identify market trends and create innovative development solutions. Must be a creative problem-solver who can navigate ambiguity and overcome challenges.
Technical Skills
Proficiency with industry-standard software, including Argus, Microsoft Excel, and project management platforms.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client offers a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation package designed to attract and retain top-tier talent. This includes:
- A highly competitive base salary
- Significant annual performance-based bonus potential
- Long-term incentive plan with equity participation/carried interest
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents
- Generous 401(k) plan with a strong company match
- Substantial paid time off (PTO) and paid holidays
- Executive-level perks such as a car allowance and wellness stipend
- Relocation assistance for exceptional candidates
- A dynamic, collaborative, and entrepreneurial work environment with significant autonomy
- Unparalleled opportunity for professional growth and to make a tangible impact on the Miami skyline
How to Apply
JRG Partners is exclusively managing the search for this pivotal Head of Real Estate Development role. If you are a visionary leader with the experience and drive to lead a best-in-class development platform, we encourage you to apply. To be considered for this confidential opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant project experience and qualifications. For more information about our expertise in this sector, please visit the JRG Partners’ Real Estate executive search practice page. We look forward to connecting with you.
Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.
