PROJECT DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

Zehr Group is looking for an experienced Project Design and Development Manager to lead our development initiatives within the construction industry, based out of our St. Jacobs office. The ideal candidate will report to the Executive Vice President of Development and Construction, they will have over 10 years of experience and possess a deep understanding of construction processes, design efficiency, and project management. This role is crucial for coordinating between architects, consulting teams, and various stakeholders to ensure successful project delivery with schedule.

AREAS OF RESPONSIBILTY

• Oversee the design and development phases of construction projects, ensuring alignment with company standards and client expectations. Full collaboration with the development division, partners, and teams is expected.
• Serve as the primary representative for the developer in coordination meetings related to building design including Director of Land Development, external architects, engineers, and consulting teams, fostering effective communication and collaboration.
• Conduct thorough evaluations of project designs to optimize efficiency and functionality while adhering to industry regulations and standards.
• Utilizing strong construction knowledge, make recommendations to extended team on preferred building solutions.
• Working closely with the Director of Finance, develop and maintain project budgets, provide accurate estimates to support project proforma, and track and report financial performance throughout the project lifecycle.
• Working with the project Architect and Construction Manager, and manage project schedules, ensuring timely delivery of milestones, and addressing any potential delays proactively.
• Collaborate with the Construction Manager and subcontractors during the Pre-Construction phase and actively promote value engineering ideas and find efficiencies in each project.
• Responsible for reviewing and signing off on Construction Manager deliverables such as budgets, bid analysis, contractor selection, invoicing, change orders, and project teams proposed for the project.
• Evaluate CM Proposals and determine best style of contract, ensuring fees and content are in line with expectations and industry standards.
• Act as an Owners representative during the construction phase of the development. Liaison between Ownership and the Construction Manager to ensure timely responses to questions, timely approval of Change Orders, etc.
• Thinking outside the box to continue to explore new construction techniques that would be the best fit for each client and project.
• Cultivate strong relationships with trades and subcontractors, leveraging industry knowledge to work closely with the Construction Manager, negotiate contracts, and manage performance.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify and mitigate risks associated with project design and execution.
• Take an innovative approach to industry trends, technologies, and best practices to continuously improve project outcomes and processes.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

• Bachelor’s degree or diploma in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in the construction and development industry, with a focus on project management and design coordination.
• Strong understanding of construction methodologies, design efficiency, and related trades.
• Proven track record of managing complex construction projects from conception to completion.
• Exceptional budgeting and estimating skills, with a keen eye for detail and accuracy.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to lead meetings and facilitate discussions among diverse teams.
• Proficient in project management software and tools; familiarity with BIM and design software is an advantage.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a proactive approach to overcoming challenges.

The Zehr Group is one of the fastest growing real estate development and construction companies in South-Western Ontario. It currently has various condominium developments, and residential and ICI projects underway in the greater Kitchener - Waterloo area. Zehr Group has completed over 300 construction projects including new commercial, residential, and industrial buildings, in addition to historical renovations. Landmark construction projects in the Region include: Charlie West, Glove Box, 100 Victoria towers, The Breithaupt Block and many more.