Director Business Development (Americas)

Job Summary

The Director, Development (Americas) oversees development operations for Kerzern International Developments (KID) and reports to the VP Business Development (Europe & Americas). This position supports the execution of the company's global development strategy within their assigned geographic region or market segment, with a focus on expanding KID's business lines through evaluation and advancement of new and existing property developments, including feasibility studies, market analysis, and client engagement.

The Director identifies and pursues development opportunities by leveraging Kerzern's brand strength, fostering joint ventures with capital partners, and exploring acquisitions and management agreements. The role focuses on the growing mixed-use development sector for hotels and residences while expanding the company's global presence, ensuring projects are delivered in adherence to contractual agreements through collaboration with Operations, Technical Services, business-line leaders, clients, and their representatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Meet with third parties including project developers, owners, lenders, design teams, sellers, and brokers to source new projects and qualify leads
• Assist and lead the RFQ and RFP process while creating presentations for new developments in conjunction with Planning
• Assist in the due diligence process for acquiring domestic and international hotels, resorts, or development sites
• Provide quick and accurate assessments of prospective new developments, identifying risks and opportunities while ensuring consensus
• Assist in completing deals accurately, mitigating risks, and communicating effectively while solving issues and challenges proactively
• Oversee financial and feasibility analyses, diligence, and investment presentations for potential transactions
• Manage ownership structure negotiations, operating agreement negotiations, and leadership of due diligence efforts
• Investigate potential acquisition and development opportunities including mixed-use hotel, residential, and retail platforms
• Perform analytical studies to demonstrate feasibility of business plans for new acquisitions and market expansion impact
• Work closely with VP Development to source deals and fulfill company objectives while managing client expectations
• Consolidate existing client relationships with the aim of securing repeat business and maintaining world-class service delivery
• Identify resources, oversee activities, and confer with key stakeholders to ensure Development standards objectives are accomplished
• Oversee and evaluate business processes to maximize efficiency and effectiveness while managing third-party vendors
• Monitor costs and quality of service while identifying appropriate vendors for various project requirements

Skills, Experience & Educational Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Hotel Management, Commerce, or equivalent field required
• 5+ years of experience in similar position in hotel/asset management consulting, hotel organization, or real estate company with hotels
• International hospitality experience, ideally gained in international hotel chains or global development companies
• Experience in hotel/real estate development processes and Management Contract negotiations preferred
• Solid educational background with ability to source and maintain strong professional relationships with investor groups and HNWI
• Ability to communicate effectively with people at all levels of the organization and external stakeholders
• Proven ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines in fast-paced, high-volume environments
• Strong project management skills with ability to manage multiple concurrent projects effectively
• Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal supervision while maintaining high performance standards