Respond is a construction led Approved Housing Body and service provider. We're expanding our dedicated team, seeking individuals who possess both the drive and skills necessary to help us make a significant impact.
Respond is committed to equal employment and growing a diverse workforce. If you do not "tick every box" there are likely other valuable attributes and skills that you have, that would make you a great fit for the organisation. We welcome applications from people of all cultures, nationalities, genders and from anyone who has historically faced social exclusion. If you feel this role is for you, then please apply
Job Title: Director of Development
Reporting To: Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Location: Hybrid position, with an expectation of in-person executive presence primarily in Dublin and Waterford
Salary: A competitive remuneration package, along with benefits, will be offered commensurate with the successful candidate's skills and experience.
Terms: Permanent full-time 39 hours per week (Monday-Friday)
Role Purpose
The Director of Development is a senior leadership role responsible for leading the organisation's housing development programme in support of Respond's strategic objective of increasing the supply of high-quality social and affordable homes.
The Director of Development has responsibility for the initiation and management of a significant portfolio of development projects and regularly attends meetings of the Board of Directors and relevant Board sub-committees as part of the governance dimension of the role.
Context
The role currently reports directly to the Chief Executive Officer and forms part of the organisation's senior leadership team, contributing to strategic planning and organisational decision-making.
The Director leads the Development function, which currently comprises approximately 24 staff. The team works closely with internal colleagues across Finance, Housing Operations and Asset Management as well as Services to ensure effective delivery of the organisation's housing programme.
The organisation is currently undertaking a review of its organisational structure as part of its continued growth and development. As a result, the reporting line for this role may evolve in the future. However, the core purpose, responsibilities and strategic importance of the Director of Development role will remain unchanged.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Development and Programme Delivery
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Develop and recommend to the Board a programme for the delivery of homes in fulfilment of the organisation's strategic goals.
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Provide expert advice to the CEO and Board on housing market opportunities, and development strategies.
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Contribute to the development and review of organisational strategies and policies relating to development and asset growth.
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Direct and manage the implementation of the organisation's development programme as approved by the Board.
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Oversee the delivery of housing projects from initial appraisal through to completion and handover.
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Ensure that development projects are delivered on time, within budget and to the required quality standards.
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Monitor project performance and address any risks or delivery issues as they arise.
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Ensure appropriate governance and reporting arrangements are in place for development projects.
Project Procurement and Appraisal
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Lead the procurement and assessment of housing development opportunities, including new build developments, acquisitions and turnkey opportunities.
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Prepare and present business cases and investment proposals to the CEO and Board for approval.
Financial Oversight and Risk Management
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Work closely with the finance function to ensure that development projects are financially robust and aligned with the organisation's financial capacity.
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Ensure that all projects are subject to appropriate financial modelling, risk assessment and due diligence.
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Monitor development budgets and financial performance throughout the project lifecycle.
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Ensure compliance with relevant regulatory, funding and governance requirements.
Stakeholder and Partnership Management
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Develop and maintain effective relationships with local authorities, developers, contractors, funders and professional advisors.
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Represent the organisation in relevant sector forums and engagement with stakeholders involved in housing delivery.
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Support collaboration with public bodies and partners involved in the delivery of social and affordable housing.
Leadership and Governance
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Provide leadership to staff within the Development function.
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Contribute to the organisation's overall strategic direction and policy development as a member of the senior leadership team.
Person Specification
Experience
The successful candidate will have:
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At least 10 years' relevant experience in housing development, property development, construction or a related field.
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Experience managing complex development programmes or portfolios.
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Experience engaging with public bodies, developers, contractors and professional advisors.
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Experience presenting development projects to senior leadership or boards.
Experience within the housing, property development, infrastructure, or Approved Housing Body sector would be advantageous.
Qualifications
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A relevant third-level qualification in property, construction, planning, engineering, housing, or a related discipline.
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Equivalent professional experience may also be considered.
Relevant professional accreditation (for example in property, planning, construction or finance) would be advantageous.
Skills and Competencies
The successful candidate will demonstrate:
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Strong strategic planning and commercial acumen
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Strong project and programme management skills
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Strong stakeholder management and negotiation skills
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Excellent communication and presentation skills
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Ability to operate effectively in a governance-driven environment with Board oversight
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Commitment to the organisation's social mission and delivery of high-quality homes
For a deeper look at the role, responsibilities, and our culture, we invite you to explore the job brochure linked below:
Respond-Director-of-Development-Job-Booklet-3.pdf
