Real Estate Development Manager

Job Title: Real Estate Development Manager

Location: Nairobi, Kenya

Industry: Real Estate

Gross Salary: KES 120,000 - 200,000

Job Purpose:

We are seeking a highly skilled and results-driven Quantity Surveyor / Project Manager to oversee the cost, planning, and execution of off-plan real estate projects. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing project budgets, timelines, procurement, and construction progress while ensuring quality delivery in line with client expectations and regulatory standards.

Key Responsibilities:

Cost Estimation & Budgeting:

• Prepare comprehensive project cost estimates, bills of quantities (BOQs), and cash flow projections.
• Develop and monitor budgets to ensure alignment with project goals and financial viability.
• Forecast project costs and regularly track actual expenditures to mitigate overruns.

Project Planning & Scheduling:

• Develop detailed project schedules, including Gantt charts and critical path analysis.
• Allocate resources and monitor timelines for each project milestone from inception to handover.
• Implement risk management strategies and mitigation plans for potential delays or cost escalations.

Procurement & Contract Management:

• Lead the procurement process: source suppliers, prepare tender documents, evaluate bids, and negotiate favorable contracts.
• Administer contractual agreements with contractors, consultants, and suppliers.
• Ensure timely delivery of materials and services in line with project requirements.

Construction Supervision & Quality Control:

• Oversee construction activities on-site to ensure compliance with project specifications, building codes, and health & safety standards.
• Coordinate site inspections, quality assurance checks, and materials testing.
• Ensure contractors follow design details, construction methodologies, and project schedules.

Stakeholder Engagement & Communication:

• Act as the liaison between architects, engineers, contractors, and the internal management team.
• Communicate project progress and issues clearly and consistently to all stakeholders.
• Address regulatory and community concerns related to the construction process.

Variation Management & Claims Handling:

• Manage and evaluate change requests, variations, and claims from contractors.
• Negotiate and agree on cost/time impacts of project changes to maintain continuity and minimize disputes.

Reporting & Documentation:

• Track project KPIs and provide timely progress and financial reports to management.
• Maintain detailed project documentation, including site diaries, financial logs, and compliance records.

Key Qualifications and Skills:

• Bachelors Degree in Quantity Surveying, Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or a related discipline.
• A Masters Degree or relevant certifications (e.g., MRICS, PMP, PRINCE2) will be an added advantage.
• At least 5 years of solid experience in a similar role within the real estate or construction industry, with proven exposure to off-plan developments in Kenya.
• In-depth knowledge of quantity surveying principles, construction project lifecycles, procurement processes, and contract administration.
• Proficient in project management tools (e.g., MS Project, Primavera) and quantity surveying software (e.g., CostX, WinQS).
• Strong analytical and numerical skills with high attention to detail in financial and technical reporting.
• Excellent interpersonal, leadership, and communication skills.
• Ability to work under pressure, prioritize workloads, and manage multiple concurrent projects effectively.
• Demonstrated integrity, professionalism, and commitment to high-quality project delivery.

Why this role is attractive:

• A fast-paced and collaborative work environment.
• Opportunities for continuous learning and career progression.
• A chance to contribute meaningfully to quality housing development in Kenya.
• Performance-based bonuses and recognition programs.