Senior Development Manager 
Reports to: Regional Manager 

Title: Senior Development Manager

Are you an experienced leader in land development or property, ready to take ownership of region-shaping projects?
Do you thrive in a role where strategic thinking, people leadership, and commercial outcomes intersect?
We’re looking for a Senior Development Manager to lead the delivery of large-scale residential and mixed-use developments across the Bay of Plenty. You’ll oversee the full development lifecycle, from feasibility and site acquisition through to construction and handover, while mentoring a high-performing team and driving commercial outcomes.
This is a hands-on leadership role with real influence, offering the chance to shape masterplanned communities that contribute to housing supply, community wellbeing, and long-term regional growth.

About Us:

Classic Developments provides end-to-end development management and advisory services across residential, commercial, and mixed-use projects nationwide. Founded in the Bay of Plenty in the late 1990s, we’ve grown into a multi-disciplinary team known for delivering strategic, people-focused outcomes. We partner with a diverse range of clients from private landowners and government agencies to community housing providers, bringing their visions to life through intelligent, outcome-driven development. Backed by a strong pipeline and our partnership with the NZ Super Fund through Kaha Ake, we’re well-positioned for continued growth. As part of the Classic Group, we draw on deep industry connections and shared capability while retaining the independence to shape our own path.

About the Job:

In this role, you’ll take ownership of delivering complex residential and mixed-use land development projects across the Bay of Plenty. You’ll lead every stage of the development lifecycle, working closely with councils, iwi, consultants, and JV partners to ensure projects are delivered on time and to the highest standards. You’ll guide contract negotiations, oversee financial performance, including budgeting and funding strategies, and foster a strong safety culture across all activities. This role also involves mentoring a talented team and contributing to the strategic direction of the region’s development pipeline.

What’s in it for You?

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Lead regionally significant projects with national visibility and impact.
• Exposure to a diverse portfolio of residential and mixed-use developments.
• A values-driven company culture that prioritises people, transparency and growth.
• Opportunities to shape strategy and influence future acquisitions.
• Work alongside respected industry leaders in a collaborative environment.

 
About You:
You’re a confident and capable leader with:

• Proven experience in property, land development, or engineering.
• Strong commercial acumen and financial management skills.
• A strategic mindset with the ability to balance risk, opportunity, and long-term value.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and relationship-building skills
• Deep understanding of NZ’s planning and regulatory frameworks.
• Experience with construction contract management (NZS 3910, 3915, or 3916 beneficial).
• Strong programming and scheduling capabilities.
• A background in property valuation, planning, or feasibility.
• A passion for safety and team development.

If you’re motivated to take on a leadership role in a transformative project, I’d welcome a confidential discussion.
Apply now with your CV, or contact me directly to explore this opportunity further.
📩 daniel@84recruitment.co.nz 📞 021 401 893
Daniel Willcox – Principal Consultant, 84 Recruitment