Land and Planning Director

About the role

This senior position will lead the new residential development arm of a privately‑owned property business. Reporting directly to the owners, you will shape the land acquisition strategy across Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire, focusing on high‑quality, low‑volume sites that deliver strong planning uplift and commercial returns.

Key responsibilities

• Identify and source on‑ and off‑market residential development opportunities (5‑50 units).
• Build and maintain relationships with landowners, agents and local industry contacts.
• Negotiate Option Agreements, Subject‑to‑Planning deals and other acquisition structures.
• Assess planning potential, site constraints and commercial viability.
• Collaborate with external planning and technical consultants to maximise development value.
• Help define the long‑term land acquisition strategy for the business.

Required profile

• Proven track record acquiring residential development sites.
• Extensive network across Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire.
• Commercially minded, entrepreneurial and comfortable working autonomously.
• Experience either client‑side with a housebuilder/SME developer or within a residential land agency.
• Ability to act as a trusted adviser to senior owners.

Required skills

What we offer

• Competitive salary with bonus and long‑term incentive scheme.
• Autonomy to develop relationships and negotiate acquisitions.
• Support from an established construction business capable of delivering schemes.
• Opportunity to be the first senior hire and shape a growing development platform.