Development Director (Real Estate)

C.D. Smith Construction, Inc.Fond Du Lac, WI

$100,000 - $200,000 / year

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Overview

Remote

On-site

Compensation

$100,000-$200,000/year

Job Description

SUMMARY/OBJECTIVE

C.D. Smith Construction is seeking a Development Manager or Director to lead and grow our real estate development pipeline—from site sourcing and acquisition through entitlements, financing, and disposition. This executive role partners closely with company leadership to shape development strategy, evaluate opportunities through rigorous financial analysis, and build strong relationships with investors, public agencies, and external partners. Construction oversight is not a requirement for this position.

This position will be based in one of our Wisconsin offices: Milwaukee, Madison, or Fond du Lac, with travel as needed to support pursuits and projects throughout the United States.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

· Strategic vision: Help analyze and define long-term development strategy, identify emerging market opportunities, and set tactical objectives for the real estate department.

· Acquisition & feasibility: Lead the sourcing of new sites and conduct thorough financial analysis, including pro-forma modeling and risk assessments, to determine project viability.

· Entitlements & approvals: Manage the entitlement process, including public approvals, zoning actions, and permitting with governing bodies.

· Financial management: Secure project financing through lenders or investors, manage capital budgets, and monitor expenditures to prevent cost overruns.

· Stakeholder management: Build and maintain relationships with key partners, including architects, public officials, lenders/investors, and other stakeholders.

· Operational leadership: Mentor internal development team members, establish goals, and drive accountability.

· Asset/portfolio management: Support management of existing assets/LLC structures and coordinate with accounting on reporting and ongoing administration.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

· Education: Bachelor’s degree in Real Estate, Business Administration, Construction Management, Finance, or a related field required. Master’s degree (MBA or MSRE) preferred.

· Experience: 4–10+ years of progressive experience in real estate development with a demonstrated record of sourcing, underwriting, entitling, financing, and executing successful projects.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

· Negotiation: Critical for closing land deals, securing favorable construction contracts, and finalizing lease agreements.

· Financial Acumen: Deep knowledge of real estate finance, accounting, and tax laws to manage complex investment structures.

· Regulatory Expertise: Thorough understanding of local building codes, zoning laws, and environmental standards.

· Strategic Thinking: Ability to interpret market data and demographic trends to design projects that meet future demand.

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FAQs About Development Director (Real Estate) Jobs at C.D. Smith Construction, Inc.

What is the work location for this position at C.D. Smith Construction, Inc.?

This job at C.D. Smith Construction, Inc. is located in Fond Du Lac, WI, according to the details provided by the employer. Some roles may also include multiple work locations depending on the requirement.

What pay range can candidates expect for this role at C.D. Smith Construction, Inc.?

Candidates can expect a pay range of $100,000 and $200,000 per year.

What employment applies to this position at C.D. Smith Construction, Inc.?

The employer has not provided this information. This may be discussed during the hiring process.

What is the process to apply for this position at C.D. Smith Construction, Inc.?

You can apply for this role at C.D. Smith Construction, Inc. either through Sonara's automated application system, which helps you submit applications 10X faster with minimal effort, or by applying manually using the direct link on the job page.