The Orion Group Inc. Looking for Director of Development at Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada Full Time

Our Company Client is a developer/builder specializing in the non-market housing sector. Providing turn key project management and design-build services on a fee for service basis. Our client accesses support and funding for non-profit organizations through all levels of Government and Crown funding agencies. Working with existing housing providers and groups seeking to enter the sector, such as churches, legions, or other service organizations.

Over the past twelve years, our client has delivered innovative housing solutions to a broad range of clients in the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island. Over 3,000 units are completed or in progress for affordable rental and ownership, seniors, and healthcare and have achieved a prominent position in the non-market space. Through these efforts they offer a significant way to give back to community, delivering maximum value for their clients, partners, and people who rely on their homes.

Our client offers ample opportunities for growth and development, a competitive compensation package, a comprehensive health benefits program and an on-site gym/wellness centre. Our client offers an industry leading Development Bonus Program. As well, their office is conveniently located in Vancouver.

The ideal candidate brings 8+ years of experience in real estate development, is a self-starter who enjoys taking ownership of the success of their projects. They are intelligent, focused, driven, and an excellent relationship builder. Most notably, they understand that the success of your project depends on all stakeholders working together towards a common goal. Travel is required to project sites and to meet with stakeholders.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone who is looking for experience in the rewarding field of social-purpose housing development and with one of BC’s most respected and proven developers.

Role Description

Reporting to the Vice President, Development, the Director, Development is an integral part of the Development Team with responsibility over the diverse portfolio of non-market projects – from inception through to completion as an integral part of the team as well as to act as the main liaison between stakeholders, government agencies clients, customers, and the development consultants for Vancouver Island & the Lower Mainland. The core focus of this role is to manage the development team in a manner that meets our clients’ high standards for quality and stakeholder engagement and satisfaction.

The Director of Development’s main responsibilities are focused on ensuring the success of the project’s municipal approvals, design, and profitability. As a leader in the Development team, the Director is responsible for overseeing and directing the work of members within the development team and providing mentorship to encourage their continued growth.

The duties of the Director of Development may include but are not limited to:

• Oversee the development of all actively managed development projects on Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland and provides guidance to the development team throughout the entire development process from due-diligence, planning, design, scheduling and budgeting to approvals, construction and completion ensuring that every project is delivered as per the outlined vision.
• Work collaboratively with all clients’ teams including construction, leasing, property management, finance, customer care, accounting, and sales & marketing to ensure schedule, budget, and quality requirements of projects are being met.
• As a senior member of the Development team, you will have the opportunity to contribute to a broader corporate strategy with the client’s senior leadership team.
• Develop and execute project plan, strategy, schedule, and budget, including monthly reporting of client’s book of business.
• Lead and motivate the development team through all phases of development and ensure critical dates, funding parameters and quality requirements are met.
• Being an advocate of challenging the status-quo and pioneering innovation, sustainability, and the implementation of new processes.
• Assist the Director of Business Development in evaluation and due-diligence activities on potential new business. Develop and maintain effective relationships with partners, consultants, community stakeholders, and government authorities.
• Stay current on policies and funding programs within the non-market space which impact the business and specific projects within, including relevant initiatives, bylaws, regulations, and guidelines.
• Develop and manage timelines and various activities (task lists) of the development team, ensuring strategic plans and critical development processes are carried out in a timely manner.
• Continue to act as a public relations representative of the company in ways that strengthen our brand and profile.

Skills and Requirements:

• Education: Bachelor of Commerce, Master of Business Administration, Urban Land Economic Degree, Finance Degree, Engineering Degree, Construction Degree or equivalent.
• Experience: 8+ years of real estate experience in a progressively senior role – with a minimum of 5 years in the industry as a Development Manager, Senior Development Manager/Director, completing successful real estate projects from inception through to completion with confidence in the role requirements.
• Previous working experience with social purpose projects such as BC Housing and CMHC is an asset.
• Proven success and passion for real estate and sustaining strong relationships with team members, partners, consultants, community stakeholders, tenants, and government authorities.
• Experience and knowledge of construction process, contracts, funding programs and requirements.
• Strong computer skills, especially Excel. Previous experience using MS Project will be considered an asset.
• Results-driven and deadline-driven in a high volume, fast-paced team environment.
• Well-versed in acquisitions and project/development financing, including an intuitive understanding of development proformas.
• Thrives working in a team environment as both a team member and a leader.
• Strong analytical and decision-making skills, coupled with good business acumen and a proactive approach to problem solving.
• Excellent communicator with strong interpersonal skills and the ability to illustrate complex concepts effectively and work collaboratively within a team.
• Effective leader and have excellent mentoring, delegation, planning and leadership skills.
• Superior public relations skills with a demonstrated track record of dealing successfully with internal and external stakeholders.
• Ability to interpret and effectively manage multiple and competing priorities and timelines.
• Demonstrated reputation for always acting with a high level of integrity.
• Demonstrated ability to exercise necessary cost control measures