Position Overview

The Chief Development Officer (CDO) is responsible for leading the Company’s overall development program from master planning through design, construction, and project delivery. The role ensures regulatory compliance, budget control, quality standards, and timely execution across all development phases while maintaining an integrated, client-side project management approach. The CDO is a key strategic advisor to the CEO and Board and acts as a public ambassador for the Company.

Business Industry: Real Estate Development / Master Planning / Design & Development
Work Type: On-site – Montenegro
Reports To: CEO / Board
Languages: English required, Montenegrin preferred
Preferred Experience: Lebanon or Gulf-based candidates with strong international exposure

Key Responsibilities

Strategy & Master Planning

• Own and manage the implementation and evolution of the Master Plan throughout the project lifecycle.
• Ensure Company-wide adherence to planning principles and regulatory requirements.
• Advise the CEO and Board on development strategy, risks, and opportunities.

Product Development & Feasibility

• Lead feasibility studies, due diligence, environmental assessments, and design evaluations.
• Oversee product definition, release strategies, and revenue planning in collaboration with Sales and Commercial teams.
• Ensure alignment between design intent, market demand, and financial objectives.

Design & Development Oversight

• Oversee concept and schematic design to ensure compliance with design briefs, budgets, schedules, and regulations.
• Coordinate designers, consultants, contractors, and authorities through all approval stages.

Health, Safety & Environment

• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, quality, and environmental standards.
• Promote and embed a strong safety culture across internal teams and external partners.

People Leadership

• Build and lead a high-performing development organisation.
• Conduct regular performance reviews, coaching, and development planning.
• Foster a culture of accountability, learning, and continuous improvement.

Qualifications & Experience

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Architecture, Planning, or related discipline.
• Project Management certification (PMP or equivalent) preferred.

Experience

• Minimum 10 years of experience in large-scale development, design, and construction.
• Proven experience managing complex mixed-use developments from concept to delivery.
• Strong exposure to client-side development governance and stakeholder management.

Core Competencies

• Strategic Planning & Execution
• Commercial & Financial Acumen
• Risk & Regulatory Management
• Leadership & Influence
• Complex Problem Solving

Languages

• English required.
• Montenegrin preferred.