We are seeking an experienced Real Estate Development Executive to lead all aspects of the construction of our new corporate campus. Reporting to the Vice President of Corporate Real Estate, the Real Estate Development Executive will coordinate with internal stakeholders, external consultants, contractors, and local authorities. The ideal candidate will be skilled in large-scale project execution, have deep knowledge of Canadian building codes and standards, and be adept at managing complex budgets, schedules, and stakeholder expectations. This role requires a visionary leader who can drive the construction process from initiation to completion while maintaining a strong focus on quality, safety, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness while leading a small team of PM's & construction director.
Qualifications & Experience
Education: Bachelor’s degree in construction management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, or related field. Master’s degree or PMP/Prince2 certification considered a plus.
Experience: Minimum 15 years’ experience in construction with 7 years of project management, including leading large-scale commercial or corporate campus developments in Canada.
Technical Skills:
· Direct experience with real estate development projects
· Direct construction management experience
· Analytical and strategic skills; ability to plan, manage, and implement multiple projects
· Ability to plan and implement complex projects
· Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of construction practices and terminology
· Demonstrated ability to read and understand architectural plans and drawings
· Demonstrated knowledge of a wide variety of construction materials, products and systems
• In-depth understanding of Canadian building codes, zoning regulations, safety standards, and environmental requirements.
• Strong proficiency in construction project management software
Leadership & Communication:
• Demonstrated ability to lead multidisciplinary project teams, manage complex stakeholder groups, and communicate effectively with executives and contractors alike.
• Excellent negotiation, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong organizational skills with a keen attention to detail and the ability to handle multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Personal Attributes:
• High integrity, professionalism, and commitment to excellence.
• Forward-thinking mindset with a passion for innovation and sustainability in the built environment.
• Adaptability to evolving project requirements and a dynamic corporate culture.
Key Responsibilities
1. Project Planning & Scheduling:
· Liaise with the Development Supplier, the Design team, and the Construction team to produce the technical Basis of Design (BoD) and Project’s Owner’s Requirement documents that will be used to assist the estimation team in preparing a Class D, C, B & A construction budget.
· Analyze and update the project Proforma to provide realistic input assumptions for Project Costs, Schedule, and Cashflow.
• Implement project controls, tracking systems, and reporting mechanisms to monitor milestones and progress.
2. Budget & Cost Management:
· Prepare and manage detailed construction budgets, ensuring all expenditures align with approved financial parameters.
· Implement rigorous cost control measures, track variances, and recommend corrective actions when needed.
· Review contractor invoices, negotiate change orders, and ensure fiscal responsibility throughout the project lifecycle.
· See to it that the Construction Contract is prepared and executed in a timely manner with all plans and specs that are reflective of design understanding.
3. Vendor & Stakeholder Management:
• Source, select, and manage construction contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, and consultants.
• Foster productive relationships with architects, engineers, city officials, and utility providers, ensuring all parties understand project objectives and timelines.
• Serve as the primary point of contact between internal stakeholders and external project teams, ensuring clear communication and alignment on goals.
4. Compliance & Quality Assurance:
• Ensure all work complies with Canadian federal, provincial, and municipal building codes, health and safety regulations, environmental standards, and zoning laws.
· Review and report on construction schedule and advancement.
· Attend monthly Owner/Design Coordination Meetings and ensure all decisions that need to be made by the Ownership Group (RFIs, Materials/Color Selections, Mock-up approvals, etc.) are captured and that the Ownership Group is apprised of items on which decisions need to be taken in a timely manner.
· Review Site Directive/Change Order coming through to make sure changes are warranted and properly clarified in the interest of the business.
· When applicable, oversee LEED certification professions and processes.
· Review plans on a regular basis to ensure Nokia's requirements are being achieved and maintained.
· Meet with Developer and walk the site on a monthly basis, to provide and report on Construction Advancement.
· Pro-actively identify deficiencies, observations, and potential construction issues during walkthroughs.
· Review, comment, and assist in managing any change orders or potential change orders for the project. Authorize change orders and other amendments to the design and construction contracts.
· Attend weekly design coordination meetings with contractor, architect, engineers, and consultants. Assist the Development company in making design decisions that are consistent with the scope, budget, and planned operations and maintenance of the completed project;
· Attend site coordination meetings as needed to discuss potential or pending change orders, problems, schedule, budget, requests for information and any other areas of interest.
5. Sustainability & Innovation:
• Integrate sustainable construction practices, materials, and technologies to support environmental goals and green building certifications (e.g., LEED).
• Champion innovative construction methodologies and leverage technology tools (e.g., Building Information Modeling, project management software) to improve efficiency and project outcomes.
6. Reporting & Documentation:
• Provide regular, detailed project updates to the VP of Real Estate and executive leadership, including progress reports, cost analyses, and risk assessments.
• Maintain comprehensive project documentation and archival records for future reference and compliance audits.