Chief Development Officer - Development & Construction

Your new company:

HAYS are exclusively representing a Washington DC area headquartered Health Club who are looking to hire a Chief Development Officer (CDO). The CDO will lead the company's development strategy, focusing on expanding and optimizing new and existing locations to drive overall growth. This is a fantastic opportunity for a CDO with expertise in managing the development and construction of corporate fitness clubs, entertainment or big-box retail projects across multiple geographies simultaneously.

Core Responsibilities:

• Align development goals with the overall strategic vision of the company, working closely with the executive team.
• Supervise the VP of Real Estate and the VP of Construction, providing guidance and support to ensure alignment with company objectives.
• Ensure effective coordination between real estate acquisitions and construction projects.
• Guide the VP of Real Estate in conducting market research and site selection to identify high-potential locations for new clubs.
• Evaluate demographic data, market trends, and competition to inform site selection and development strategies.
• Lead property lease and purchase negotiations, ensuring favorable terms and smooth transaction processes.
• Manage and optimize the existing real estate portfolio, including lease renewals, relocations, and asset disposals.
• Oversee the development and management of budgets for real estate acquisitions and construction projects.
• Ensure cost-effective allocation of resources and adherence to financial plans.
• Perform ROI analysis and monitor financial performance of development projects.
• Develop and refine processes to enhance efficiency, accountability, and consistency across all development activities.
• Implement best practices for managing Capex and R&M budgets, project timelines, and compliance.
• Oversee the VP of Construction in all phases of construction including pre-construction design and planning, budgeting, competitive bidding, GC selection, adherence to club-build standards, project timing and project closeout.
• Identify potential risks and develop mitigation strategies to ensure successful project execution and all projects comply with local, state, and federal regulations.
• Utilize data and analytics to measure and report on key performance indicators (KPIs)
• Identify opportunities to reduce construction time and costs through data analysis.
• Maintain effective communication and alignment between all stakeholders, including senior leadership, real estate, construction, and external partners.
• Lead and mentor subordinates, fostering a culture of high performance and continuous improvement.
• Ensure that facility and equipment needs are addressed timely and affordably across all locations.
• Act as a cost-cutting advocate, seeking ways to drive efficiency and value engineer new club construction and existing club Capex & R&M.

To be successful in this role:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Real Estate, Finance, or Construction field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in real estate development, business development, or a related field. At least 5 years in an Executive or C-Suite position.
• Proven track record of successfully managing the development and construction of new build and renovation, 15,000 sq ft+ big-box retail or health/fitness clubs projects.
• Experienced in the development and construction of these project across multiple geographies simultaneously.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate a diverse team.
• Excellent strategic planning, analytical, and financial modeling skills.
• Exceptional negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Live and be comfortable in coming to the DC area office at least 4 days a week with anticipated travel of 10-20% per month.

Compensation/Benefits:

• Base salary based on experience in the range of $300k - $400k, negotiable.
• Bonus package up to 40% of base salary.
• Equity package is on offer.
• 100% covered medical, dental and vision plan including family plans.
• 401K plan with a discretionary company match.
• Flexible and hybrid work environment including 1 day work from home.
• Company provided technology including phone and laptop.
• 4 weeks starting PTO plus company paid Holidays.
• Fitness and wellness membership included.
• If required, full relocation package will be provided but successful candidates will need to be present and local in DC.

What you need to do now:

If you meet the criteria and are interested in this Chief Development Officer position, click “apply” to forward an up-to-date copy of your resume, or call Scott Kinson now on 202-470-0641 for a confidential conversation.