Chief Development Officer
Industry: Real Estate Development Reporting To: Chief Executive Officer Location: Saudi Arabia
Our Client Our client is a subsidiary of a larger group focussed on mixed-use real estate development projects.
Role Overview The Chief Development Officer (CDO) will provide executive leadership for the companies real estate development portfolio, overseeing the full development lifecycle from strategy and investment planning through to execution, commercialisation and project delivery. The role will be responsible for translating the companies strategic objectives into commercially viable development programmes, ensuring projects are delivered to the required standards of quality, profitability, governance and compliance. Working closely with the CEO and senior leadership team, the CDO will lead cross-functional teams, identify new development and investment opportunities, strengthen strategic partnerships and drive the overall financial and operational performance of the development business.
Key Responsibilities Establish and execute the Group’s real estate development strategy in line with overall corporate objectives and growth plans. Provide executive oversight of the complete development lifecycle, including feasibility, land acquisition, design, planning, financing, construction, sales, leasing and asset handover. Take overall responsibility for the commercial, operational and technical performance of development projects. Identify and evaluate new development, investment and acquisition opportunities in the Saudi Arabian real estate market. Develop and maintain a strong pipeline of projects, strategic partnerships, investors and commercial opportunities. Convert strategic direction from the CEO into clear execution plans, priorities, milestones and measurable deliverables. Provide the CEO and Board with regular reporting on project progress, financial performance, risks, opportunities and key performance indicators. Establish effective operating frameworks, processes, governance structures and performance metrics across the development function. Lead and integrate multidisciplinary teams covering development, construction, finance, legal, sales, marketing, procurement and other relevant functions. Ensure projects are delivered within approved budgets, timelines, quality standards and commercial objectives. Maintain rigorous oversight of project financial performance, development budgets, forecasts, cash flow and key commercial KPIs. Develop and maintain strong relationships with investors, financial institutions, government authorities, consultants, contractors, developers, brokers and other key stakeholders. Lead commercial negotiations and strategic partnerships to maximise project value and support the Group’s growth objectives. Monitor market conditions, customer demand, economic trends, regulatory developments and competitive activity to identify risks and opportunities. Ensure appropriate risk management processes are embedded across the development portfolio. Ensure all development activities comply with applicable Saudi regulations, planning requirements, governance standards and internal policies. Drive a culture of accountability, performance, innovation and continuous improvement across the development organisation. Remain responsive to evolving business priorities and provide leadership during changes in strategic direction or project requirements.
Candidate Profile Experience Minimum 10 years’ experience within real estate development, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership or executive management position. Proven track record of leading large-scale real estate development projects from inception through to completion and commercialisation. Significant experience within the Saudi Arabian real estate development market is essential. Strong understanding of the Saudi regulatory, planning, construction and investment environment. Demonstrable experience managing multidisciplinary teams and complex stakeholder environments. Strong commercial acumen with proven responsibility for project and/or business P&L performance.
Education & Professional Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Architecture, Real Estate, Construction Management or a related discipline. An MBA or relevant postgraduate qualification is highly desirable. PMP or equivalent project management certification would be an advantage.
Competencies Extensive knowledge of real estate development, construction, investment, finance and project delivery. Strong commercial and financial management capability. Strategic thinking combined with a strong execution and delivery mindset. Exceptional leadership, stakeholder management and negotiation skills. Strong understanding of project feasibility, development economics, budgeting and financial performance. Ability to manage multiple complex projects and competing priorities simultaneously. Strong decision-making and problem-solving capabilities. Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to engage effectively with C-suite executives, investors and senior stakeholders. Highly adaptable and comfortable operating in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment. Fluent in both Arabic and English.