Development Manager – Real Estate

About the role

The Development Manager is responsible for setting and guiding the strategic direction of the Dubai Festival City Masterplan development to enhance asset value. This role involves leading the entire development process from initial planning through to project handover, focusing on financial returns, budget discipline, and high‑quality deliverables.

Key responsibilities

• Consultant Selection – invite proposals, manage selection and negotiation, develop RFPs, produce internal approvals, monitor deliverables.
• Authorities Management – handle documentation with consultants, achieve project approvals according to programme milestones.
• Design Development – ensure design goals from concept to detailed design, appoint consultants, secure briefs, assess cost estimates.
• Project Management – collaborate with project managers to meet time, cost, quality, and commercial objectives; coordinate owners, consultants, contractors, tenants; monitor change management.
• Procurement Strategy – work with Procurement Team to develop and review procurement strategies, ensure policy compliance.
• Project Reporting – compile and present construction progress and financial performance, prepare monthly control group papers, maintain feasibility studies and executive dashboards.
• Leasing/Tenant Coordination – drive fit‑out process, resolve issues, meet handover dates, coordinate with base‑build and tenant contractors.
• Project Handover – manage handover to Asset Owners, ensure quality checks and sign‑offs.
• Team Management and Leadership – conduct monthly reviews with consultant managers, address performance issues, motivate teams.

Required profile

• Degree qualified in Business or Project Management from a premier institute.
• At least 7+ years experience in a development or project role with a strong track record in delivery, handover, and closeout.
• Experience in real estate, retail, and/or hospitality sectors is desirable.
• Strong analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Required skills

• Advanced knowledge of Microsoft programs and related project management techniques.
• Strong commercial acumen and understanding of FIDIC and construction techniques.
• Proven leadership and management abilities with excellent time management.
• Excellent communication and influencing skills at all organizational levels.