Land Manager – Strategic Land.
South East | Major UK Land Promoter.
I’m working with a market-leading strategic land business to appoint a Land Manager into their growing South East team.
This company is a long-established and well-capitalised land promoter with an excellent track record in identifying, securing, and promoting large-scale development sites. Working closely with local authorities, landowners, and stakeholders, they deliver complex regeneration and residential-led schemes that create lasting value for all involved.
Backed by a strong balance sheet and a long-term outlook, this is a great opportunity for an ambitious land professional to work on high-profile projects, gain exposure to senior leadership, and play a meaningful role in shaping new communities across the region.
The Role
Reporting directly to the Managing Director and working closely with the senior management and planning teams, the Land Manager will help identify, secure, and manage a pipeline of strategic land opportunities across the South East.
Key responsibilities include:
* Managing and negotiating amendments to existing land contracts.
* Preparing detailed financial appraisals to assess development risk and return.
* Supporting planning colleagues on site acquisition and value realisation strategies.
* Evaluating and structuring innovative deal types — including promotion and option agreements.
* Identifying new strategic land opportunities within key growth areas.
* Undertaking due diligence to assess planning potential, constraints, and viability.
* Preparing and submitting offers to landowners and negotiating commercial terms.
* Building and maintaining strong relationships with landowners, agents, and advisors.
This is a highly collaborative, commercially focused role that combines deal-making with strategic planning insight.
What We’re Looking For
* Ideally RICS (Planning & Development) qualified, with post-qualification experience in land, planning, or development.
* Background in strategic land acquisition or promotion, gained with a developer, promoter, or consultancy.
* Commercially astute, with strong financial appraisal and negotiation skills.
* Confident communicator with the ability to build and maintain long-term relationships.
* Numerate, analytical, and proactive in identifying opportunities.
* Knowledge of land contracts, due diligence, and the planning system.
* Full UK driving licence and flexibility to travel across the South East.
Why Apply?
This position offers:
* The opportunity to work on major, long-term strategic sites that will shape new communities.
* Direct exposure to an experienced leadership team and structured career progression.
* A professional, collaborative environment focused on quality, innovation, and long-term value.
* Competitive salary, performance-based bonus, car allowance, private healthcare, pension, and life assurance.
If you’re an experienced Land Manager or ready to take the next step into a more strategic, long-term role where you’ll be supported, challenged, and rewarded for your contribution I’d welcome a confidential conversation.
📞 Contact Dan Petrie
💼 Land & Strategic Development Search Specialist
📧 dan.petrie@cognisantsearch.com