Director, Development Projects

About the role

Pursuit Hospitality is seeking a visionary and results-driven Director of Development Projects to lead the planning, execution, and delivery of high-impact hospitality construction initiatives across our expanding portfolio. This role is instrumental in driving Pursuit’s growth strategy through strategic site development, innovative experience design solutions, and rigorous construction management of both new builds and major renovations.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate potential sites and provide technical due diligence and feasibility assessments.
• Translate growth initiatives into viable construction projects, integrated experience design, quality, budget, and timelines.
• Oversee Project Management team through all phases of development projects—from feasibility, pre-development through final delivery—across multiple geographies.
• Establish robust project governance, budgeting, scheduling, and risk management protocols.
• Lead internal development team members, external architects, engineers, contractors, and consultants.
• Collaborate with internal departments (executive, revenue, brand, IT, legal, finance, operations, marketing, procurement) to ensure project integration and alignment.
• Act as the primary liaison with municipal officials, permitting agencies, and local stakeholders.
• Regularly report project status, risks, and opportunities to executive leadership.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in construction management, Architecture, Civil Engineering, or related field; Master’s degree preferred.
• 10+ years of experience in construction development, with at least 5 in a senior leadership capacity within the hospitality, resort, or experiential real estate sectors.
• Proven track record of delivering complex, multi-million-dollar development projects on time and within budget.
• Deep understanding of construction methods, codes, contracts, and project controls.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Ability to travel as needed to project sites in Alaska, Montana and other locations in North America (up to 40%).
• Passion for hospitality, design, and creating unforgettable guest experiences.
• Familiarity with sustainable building practices and LEED/green building standards.
• Experience working in remote or environmentally sensitive areas (e.g., national parks, protected sites).
• Resilient, adaptable, and entrepreneurial mindset.

Skills

• Strategic Development & Planning
• Project Leadership
• Stakeholder Management
• Team Leadership & Culture