Development Director
The company
From day one, Thakeham has been driven by a clear vision: to transform the way people think about new-built developments.
Over 20 years later, that ethos is still very much alive, reflected in our numerous awards and reputation in the sector. Today, Thakeham employs close to 250 people and has a forecasted revenue of £199 million in 2024/25.
An infrastructure-led community creator and strategic land promoter, Thakeham is committed to partnerships, innovation and creating amazing places to live and work. We are industry-leading in sustainability and biodiversity. We were one of the first to introduce Zero Bills homes in partnership with Octopus Energy.
We pride ourselves on our ‘Infrastructure first’ approach, ensuring communities release the benefits of new development at the outset, rather than later in the process. We deliver social, affordable and retirement housing for a wide range of housing associations and local authorities.
People are Thakeham’s most important asset, and this is reflected in the way we operate. We are proud to be listed in the Top 100 Best Large Companies to Work For 2024.
Our people enjoy excellent rewards and working conditions in an exciting and growing business. We offer exciting career opportunities, and are keen to develop, guide and support our employees, regardless of what stage they are in their careers.
We value diversity and encourage people to bring their full authentic selves to work. A Gold Armed Forces Covenant signatory and supporter of armed force’s charity Building Heroes, Thakeham operates a Talent for Development outreach campaign for military veterans and college leavers.
Work and fun should not be mutually exclusive and Thakeham offers a range of social events such as quiz nights, BBQs and all staff parties. We run informal lunch and learns and take on charity challenges such as the Housebuilder Challenge. We encourage people to volunteer in their communities, offering two paid days per year to do so. Where roles allow, our summer hours policy in June, July and August allows people to enjoy longer weekends with their loved ones. A flexible approach to working is available all year round.
At Thakeham we build communities, together.
The department
Alongside community delivery, we are a strategic land promoter, with significant strategic land interests across the SE of England. Supported by our in-house strategic land, strategic planning, external affairs and partnership teams, we successful identify, secure, manage and promote land opportunities to continue to expand our brand and portfolio.
Development Management’s objective is to project manage the component parts taking Thakeham land opportunities through the planning cycles to ensure an implementable scheme is handed over to the Operations team.
As part of Pre- Development, the Development Management team primarily supports the Land and Planning teams in the management of new and existing land opportunities and promotion of sites and new communities. Once an implementable planning permission is achieved, the Development Management team actively manages the land valuation and acquisition process to conclusion alongside any onward transaction to meet immediate or longer-term business plan and budgetary requirement
The role
The successful candidate will provide;
- Strategic Leadership: Provide strategic direction and leadership to the development team, aligning project goals and obligations with the company’s broader vision and objectives
- Project Oversight: Lead the management of complex multiple residential development projects from initial concept through to handing over to the Operations team, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, supporting the company aspirations on placemaking and project performance
- Land Acquisition and Planning: Identify and assess new development opportunities by conducting due diligence and feasibility studies. Take overall responsibility for negotiating and completing complex land agreements. Collaborate with other teams within the business to secure land and navigate through the planning process, liaising with local authorities and stakeholders
- Stakeholder Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with external stakeholders, including local authorities, planning departments, contractors, consultants, and investors. Ensure compliance with regulations, policies, and planning requirements
- Project Management: Maintain a clear vision on the timing and progression of key project milestones, supporting collaboration across the project team to ensure accurate and considered reporting and opportunity management to drive delivery
- Financial Management: Oversee the development budget, ensuring cost control measures are in place. Provide financial forecasting, risk management, and reporting to the executive team
- Team Leadership and Development: Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing development management team. Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement
- Quality and Compliance Assurance: Ensure that all projects meet or exceed the company’s quality standards and comply with relevant building codes, health and safety regulations, environmental and sustainability guidelines
- Risk Management: Identify and mitigate risks throughout the development process. Develop and implement contingency plans to manage challenges, such as changes in market conditions and regulatory requirements
- Sustainability and Innovation: Champion sustainability in all development projects, integrating eco-friendly practices, renewable energy solutions, and cutting-edge technology into designs. Stay current with industry trends and innovations that could drive efficiencies or improve project outcomes
This list is not exhaustive. Tasks will be allocated to reflect increasing levels of development and experience.
The required skills
- Excellent leadership, team management, and interpersonal skills
- Experience of the development process, from land acquisition through to site delivery, including good knowledge of the planning process
- Knowledge of / ability to run development financial appraisals and cashflows, combined with commercial awareness and acumen
- Exceptional project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously
- Comprehensive knowledge of relevant regulations, building codes, and sustainability practices
- Strong negotiation and problem-solving abilities
- Ability to develop and maintain positive relationships with a range of stakeholders, including local authorities, contractors, and investors
Education:
- A degree in Real Estate, Surveying, Town Planning, or a related field. Relevant professional qualifications (e.g., MRICS, RICS) are preferred
Personal Attributes:
- Strategic and forward-thinking with the ability to anticipate challenges and opportunities in the housing market
- Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to represent the company to external stakeholders and present complex ideas clearly
- Strong decision-making ability and a proactive approach to solving problems
The benefits
- Competitive salary
- Car allowance
- Salary sacrifice car scheme
- Annual holiday allowance 26 days increasing to 27 after 3yrs service and 28 after 5yrs service (plus bank holidays)
- Life assurance
- Private medical insurance
- Health screening
- Pension scheme
- Bonus scheme
- Flexible working hours in a modern office environment / Working from Home Policy
- Excellent development and progression opportunities for the right candidate
- Company Social events
Plus a whole range of other employee benefits that we can tell you all about, our employees are rewarded for their performance, attitude and results.
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We are committed to providing equal opportunities in employment and treating people fairly. We will treat all job applicants and employees equally regardless of age, race, religious belief, colour, ethnic or national origin, sex, marital status, sexual orientation or disability. We welcome applicants from all sectors of society and we are committed to promoting an inclusive environment for all.
