Development Manager

  • Deverell Smith Ltd
  • Dec 11, 2025
Full time Real Estate Management Architect and Design

Job Description

Development manager

I'm working exclusively with a London-based SME developer specialising in brownfield, high-rise projects across the capital. The business is now expanding into the co-living sector and is seeking exceptional talent to join them on this journey.

I am interested in speaking to front-end Development Managers with experience in London residential development to support the Head of Development.

The role

  • Take ownership of financial appraisals and ensure performance aligns with profitability and programme objectives.

  • Assemble and manage professional consultant teams through RIBA Stages 0-3, including appointments, instructions, and regular design team meetings.

  • Lead the town planning process, including stakeholder engagement, local authority liaison, and public consultation.

  • Represent the business at planning committees and lead negotiations on Section 106 agreements.

  • Manage the smooth handover between the land acquisition team and project management team.

  • Ensure satisfaction of land contract and funder conditions to enable drawdowns.

  • Negotiate and manage third-party agreements and maintain key external relationships.

  • Collaborate closely with internal teams across finance, design, and project management to ensure aligned delivery.

Person Specification

  • Degree-educated, ideally in a relevant field (Real Estate, Planning, Development, or similar).

  • MRICS qualification desirable.

  • Proven residential development experience, ideally within London and across multiple tenure types.

  • Strong understanding of town planning processes and local authority engagement.

  • Commercially astute with excellent financial and analytical skills.

  • Collaborative team player with an eye for detail and ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.

  • Genuine interest in and empathy for the company's mission to provide affordable homes for Londoners.