Director of Development

Overview

The Director of Development leads the execution of multiple complex real estate development projects – ranging from build-to-rent (BTR), mixed-use and high-rise to garden-style, hospitality, and other asset classes – from concept through delivery. This role drives strategic initiatives, evaluates new opportunities, and collaborates cross-functionally to deliver projects that align with Buckingham Companies’ mission, vision, and values. The Director of Development also supports in sourcing and evaluating new developments and partnerships.

Qualifications

Training/Education

Bachelor’s degree in Real Estate, Finance, Business, Civil Engineering, Architecture or related field

Advanced degrees of professional designations (MBA, JD, MAI, AIA, PE) are strongly preferred

 

Experience/Skills

Minimum of seven (7) years of progressive experience in real estate development with a proven track record in multi-family, mixed-use, high-rise and/or complex development projects

Proficient in all stages of the development process: site selection, feasibility, entitlements/zoning, underwriting, financial modeling and project planning

Deep industry knowledge including design and construction processes, permitting and municipal relations

Strong analytical skills and financial acumen, particularly in managing proformas, budgeting, P&L accountability and performance tracking

Technologically adept with strong proficiency in Microsoft Office and other relevant industry software

 

Special Requirements

Big picture and strategic thinking skills

Exceptional financial acumen, ability to problem solve project challenges by understanding levers available

High degree of professionalism

Transparency, reporting and sharing of information effectively across all departments

Proven record of successful negotiation skills

Exceptional leadership, management, communication and collaboration skills

Strong analytical skills

Results oriented and solution focused

High degree of accountability and ownership

Excellent judgment and decision making skills

Ability to multitask, prioritize and meet changing deadlines

Excellent internal and external customer service skills

Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment

Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Deal Execution

• Serve as project lead and owner’s representative across all assigned developments – from sourcing through completion.
• Create and manage project plans, budgets, schedules and investment proformas, ensuring alignment with company goals.
• Lead pursuit of new opportunities through internal and external deal sourcing, market intelligence and feasibility evaluations.
• Present detailed analysis and recommendations to Investment Committee for project approval.

 

Project Development & Management

• Direct all development activities including entitlements, due diligence, site design, permitting and consultant coordination.
• Evaluate competitive positioning, demographics and market trends to inform development strategy.
• Build and maintain strong partnerships with brokers, municipalities, consultants and other stakeholders.
• Navigate entitlement and public hearing processes, including preparing and delivering presentation to city/state agencies and internal leadership.

 

Cross Functional Collaboration

• Partner with internal departments (preconstruction, design, construction, legal, finance, property management) to align on project delivery.
• Lead design oversight in collaboration with internal and external teams to meet Buckingham’s standards for quality, efficiency and design excellence.
• Incorporate property operations input to validate rental assumptions, expense benchmarking and asset performance projections.

 

Financial Oversight & Reporting

• Develop and maintain accurate financial models and reports for all projects under management.
• Monitor cost components across development phases: site acquisition, entitlement, predevelopment and construction.
• Prepare compelling presentation materials that communicate key project metrics, competitive analysis and strategic benefits.

 

Leadership & Culture

• Actively contribute to a high-performing, solutions-oriented team culture rooted in professionalism, positivity and shared success.
• Encourage continuous improvement and knowledge sharing across the organization.
• Ensure compliance with company policies and promote a