Director of Land Acquisition

Title: Director of Land Acquisition

Market: Midwest

Company Summary:

We’re innovative. We’re customer centric. We’re experience focused. We embrace the changing ideal of what and where people call home. We also believe in our formula for success – talented team collaborating with integrity, always executing, always innovating, while transforming neighborhoods and enhancing peoples’ lives.

Onyx+East is a full-service home builder including development, construction, marketing, design, and sales – focused on serving clients seeking walkable neighborhoods and homes that make their life more connected and convenient. Headquartered in Indianapolis, Onyx+East is comprised of inspired and industrious individuals who are passionate about active lifestyles, exceptional customer experiences and creating solutions for neighborhoods that positively impact communities.

Job Summary:

The Director of Land Acquisition (DLA) is responsible for leading pipeline creation and securing entitlements for an assigned area, to meet or exceed annual company goals. The DLA will work closely with internal departments including finance, accounting, land development, operations, construction and sales; as well as external consultants including legal, architecture, engineering and others. The DLA is chiefly responsible for pipeline targets, maximizing the investment underwriting, and risk mitigation.

This position may be located in Indianapolis, with direct support from O+E’s corporate office and will report to the Vice President of Acquisitions & Development (VPAD). The DLA may also be responsible for leading and managing Development Managers and Analysts toward company goals.

Key Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct in-depth market research to identify opportunities for future land acquisitions, staying informed on market activities, investment, competition and emerging trends.
• Proactively generate potential acquisitions through networks of landowners, land brokers, municipal staff and local officials, developers, and other local contacts.
• Assess and present market data and analyses to evaluate the feasibility of potential projects, identifying parcels and negotiating with sellers.
• Prepare letters of intent and work with attorneys to negotiate, prepare, and present contracts, amendments, and easements related to land contracts as needed.
• Conduct comprehensive reviews of proposed sites for development feasibility, gaining an in-depth understanding of local municipal zoning and subdivision ordinance requirements.
• Responsible for due diligence processes including environmental studies, title and survey review, geotech, wetlands, utility availability, etc.
• Oversee entitlement processes to secure project approvals and represent the company in presentations to municipal staff, governmental bodies, neighbors, homeowners associations, and landowners.
• Responsible for creating predevelopment budgets, and identifying opportunities to save or defer costs.
• Keep projects on track for budgeted start date in alignment with land contract obligations.
• Assist Finance/Accounting with creating proformas, finance packages, and development related closing documentation.
• Assist VPAD in creating packages and presentation of projects to Investment Committee as needed.
• Represent and promote the O+E brand in public forums, industry events, etc.
• Other duties as assigned.

Experience and Skill Requirements:

• Minimum of eight years of experience in real estate acquisitions, development, brokerage, and/or urban planning
• A bachelor’s degree or equivalent, ideally specializing in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Real Estate, Architecture, Landscape Architecture or Urban Planning
• Proven strategic planning skills
• Strong project management and negotiation capabilities
• Keen attention to detail and accuracy
• Excellent organizational and time management skills
• Experience with graphics and technology
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Proven analytical and problem-solving skills
• Stress tolerance
• Willingness and ability to travel