Director of Real Estate Development

Overview: The Director of Real Estate Development provides strategic leadership and direction for all real estate initiatives undertaken by The Van Wert County Foundation (VWCF) and Van Wert Forward (VWFWD). This individual is responsible for the end-to-end execution of development projects, from opportunity identification and analysis through construction, tenant occupancy, and asset management. The role demands high-level sophistication, critical thinking, and the ability to make complex financial, legal, community, and operational decisions. This role reports to the VWCF CEO and directly manages the Facilities Manager and other project staff or contract workers.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Leadership & Governance – Align development initiatives with VWCF and Van Wert Forward’s mission and vision. Guide long-term strategies, lead policy development, and coordinate board and committee activities with timely reporting. Directly manage the Leasing Manager and Facilities Manager, supporting performance, collaboration, and accountability across all departments.
• Project Development & Execution – Manage all phases of multiple concurrent development projects-from planning and demolition to construction-ensuring adherence to contracts, timelines, budgets, and quality standards. Present capital investment proposals and development authorizations. Coordinate with design professionals, contractors, and community partners to ensure smooth project delivery.
• Due Diligence & Financial Analysis – Lead property research, risk assessments, and feasibility studies. Secure funding through financing, grants, and incentives. Analyze redevelopment scenarios and tenant improvement opportunities.
• Stakeholder Engagement & Communication – Collaborate with partners, manage DRD processes, and liaise with government entities and community groups. Cultivate tenant relationships and lead property activation efforts. Maintain regular communication with staff, committees, boards, and external stakeholders to align development efforts.
• Process Development & Compliance – Develop standardized processes for redevelopment activities. Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and stay informed on relevant legislation. Create internal tools for board and committee reporting.
• Financial Management & Reporting – Work with Finance to oversee modeling, budgeting, and variance analysis. Deliver regular financial reports to the board and investors.
• Technology & Property Systems Oversight – Manage tech platforms such as HubSpot and Voyager for CRM, leasing, and other property operations. Ensure integration with project tracking and communication systems.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in real estate development, project management, or construction leadership, with a Bachelor’s degree in a related field preferred.
• Proven success managing complex projects, demonstrating strong decision-making skills, and the ability to deliver strategic solutions to multifaceted challenges.
• Skilled in budgeting, financial oversight, and profitability analysis to guide strategic planning.
• Strong interpersonal and communication abilities.
• Proficient in project and property management systems.

Interested applicants should email their cover letter and resume directly to Seth Baker, CEO. by June 30, 2025.

Our Culture

Welcome to The Van Wert County Foundation, a cornerstone of enduring values and impactful work in Van Wert County and its surrounding areas. Our team is a dynamic mix of community advocates, seasoned philanthropists, and local visionaries, each contributing unique skills and perspectives to serve our community.

Our Vision:
To create a well-resourced and thriving quality of life for our community.

Our Mission:
To transform the quality of life by inspiring, fulfilling, and supporting philanthropy.

Our Values:

• Stewardship: We safeguard and activate resources with utmost care.
• Leadership: We guide, serve, and support, acting as a beacon for community initiatives.
• Integrity: We’re committed to doing what is right and just.
• Reliability: We consistently deliver great results, earning the trust of our community.

What We Do:
We’re the stewards of various philanthropic efforts, from Legacy Endowments and Donor-Advised Funds to Charitable Remainder Trusts. We also support local initiatives like Van Wert Forward, Wassenberg Art Center, and the Niswonger Performing Arts Center (Van Wert Live). Additionally, we nurture community spaces like Franklin Park and Hiestand Woods Trails.

Why We Do It:
We’re deeply rooted in the community and are committed to its growth and well-being. We understand our neighbors’ unique needs and aspirations, many of whom span multiple generations, and we’re here to make a lasting impact.

How We Do It:
We blend a trusted steward’s conscientiousness with a community leader’s vision. Our approach is rooted in a deep understanding of our community’s needs and a commitment to fulfilling them. With a focus on reliability and integrity, we consistently deliver results that make a real difference. Our strength comes from our unwavering commitment to our values and the seasoned expertise to realize our vision.

So, if you’re someone who cherishes a well-lived life and values the power of community, looking for a place where your efforts are impactful and your integrity is celebrated, then you’ve found the right place with us. We invite you to be part of a culture that’s as resilient, personable, and deeply committed to community values as you are.