Development Manager – Sydney Based (Melbourne Project Focus)
A well-established and growing property development organisation is seeking an experienced client-side Development Manager to join its team. This role is based in Sydney and will initially focus on delivering projects located in Melbourne, with future opportunities to lead developments within NSW. The position is ideal for a commercially minded development professional who thrives on project ownership, cross-state coordination, and leading multidisciplinary teams. Projects are a broad range from mixed-use, industrial, commercial & retail.
Role Overview
The Development Manager will lead projects from feasibility through to delivery, working closely with senior leadership and overseeing consultants, project managers, and construction personnel. The role requires strong technical capability, financial acumen, and the ability to manage planning, design, procurement, and construction workflows while maintaining high standards of quality, compliance, and stakeholder engagement.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead end-to-end development processes for Melbourne-based projects while operating from Sydney.
* Undertake project identification, due diligence, feasibility analysis, financial modelling, and assessments.
* Manage development programs to ensure performance within scope, budget, risk parameters, and timeframes.
* Oversee planning submissions, permits, approvals, and coordination with statutory authorities and technical consultants.
* Manage and engage consultants including architects, planners, engineers, surveyors, and project managers.
* Lead procurement, tendering, and contract negotiation activities.
* Drive design development, value engineering, and project optimisation initiatives.
* Oversee construction delivery in collaboration with project managers and site teams.
* Conduct regular travel to Melbourne for site visits, project meetings, and consultant coordination.
* Ensure compliance with risk management, OH&S requirements, and statutory obligations.
* Prepare reports, recommendations, and market insights for senior leadership.
* Maintain strong communication and alignment between Sydney and Melbourne teams.
Skills & Experience
* 5+ years' experience in property development or project management.
* Tertiary qualifications in a relevant field.
* Strong understanding of planning, construction, and the full development lifecycle.
* Proven experience managing consultants and multidisciplinary project teams.
* High-level financial literacy and modelling capability.
* Strong written and verbal communication skills.
* Ability to travel interstate as required.
* Strong negotiation and stakeholder management experience.
* Experience in industrial, commercial, or mixed-use development is advantageous.
* Proficiency in MS Project, Excel, and document-control platforms such as Aconex or Procore.
* White Card and other relevant industry certifications are favourable.
Location & Travel
* Based in Sydney with regular travel to Melbourne depending on project stage.
Salary & Conditions
* Competitive salary package aligned with experience and capability.
* Interstate travel requirements may include relevant allowances.