Senior Development Manager – Residential & PBSA
London, UK
Privately-Owned Real Estate Developer
About the Company
We are a fast-growing, privately owned property developer delivering high-quality residential and Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) schemes across London. With an ambitious pipeline and a reputation for design-led, sustainable developments, we are entering an exciting phase of expansion and are looking to strengthen our development team with a Senior Development Manager.
The Role
As a Senior Development Manager, you will take a leading role in the end-to-end delivery of residential and PBSA projects across London. You will be responsible for driving schemes from acquisition through planning, delivery, and handover, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest standards.
This is a key position within a lean, entrepreneurial team, offering the opportunity to take real ownership of projects and contribute to the strategic growth of the business.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead multiple residential and PBSA developments through the full lifecycle (acquisition to completion)
* Manage planning strategy, including engagement with local authorities and consultants
* Oversee design development, ensuring schemes align with commercial and brand objectives
* Appoint and manage external consultants (architects, planning consultants, contractors, etc.)
* Drive project programmes, budgets, and risk management processes
* Work closely with internal stakeholders on investment appraisals and financial modelling
* Support land acquisition activities, including due diligence and feasibility analysis
* Ensure compliance with all regulatory and statutory requirements
* Lead negotiations with key stakeholders, including joint venture partners and funding partners
Key Requirements
* Proven experience in a development management role within residential and/or PBSA sectors
* Strong track record delivering schemes in London or major UK cities
* In-depth understanding of the planning system and development process
* Commercially astute with strong financial and appraisal skills
* Excellent stakeholder management and negotiation abilities
* Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment
* Degree qualified in Real Estate, Planning, Construction, or related field
Desirable
* Experience working within a privately owned or entrepreneurial development business
* Exposure to both PBSA and build-to-rent (BTR) schemes
* MRICS, MRTPI or similar professional qualification
What’s on Offer
* Opportunity to play a key role in a growing, entrepreneurial developer
* High level of autonomy and ownership across projects
* Competitive salary and performance-related bonus
* Clear progression opportunities as the business expands