Cognisant Search has been instructed to appoint a Head of Land on behalf of a privately owned residential developer headquartered in Cheshire.
Backed by over £34 million of family equity, alongside additional family office investment, the business has a number of live residential developments and is targeting delivery of approximately 200 homes per annum by 2030. An experienced board, including the former CEO and CFO of a major UK housebuilder, provides the leadership and governance to support its long-term growth.
As part of the next phase of expansion, the business is seeking to appoint its first Head of Land. Reporting directly to the owners, you'll establish and lead the land function, driving acquisition strategy and securing residential opportunities across Greater Manchester and the wider North West.
The business focuses on high-quality residential developments, typically 50-100 units, with a disciplined approach to acquisitions, prioritising quality, margin and long-term value over volume.
Head of Land.
Cheshire | South Manchester.
Exceptional Package + Healthy Site & Performance Related Bonus.
The Opportunity
You'll take ownership of the land acquisition strategy, identifying, appraising, negotiating and securing development opportunities across the region.
Responsibilities include:
Developing and delivering the land acquisition strategy.
Sourcing and securing residential development opportunities.
Leading negotiations with landowners, agents and promoters.
Preparing appraisals and investment papers for board approval.
Managing acquisitions through to exchange.
Building and maintaining key relationships across the North West land market.
Establishing the systems and processes to support the continued growth of the business.
Candidate Profile
We're interested in speaking with commercially minded land professionals with a proven track record of acquiring residential development sites across Cheshire and the wider North West.
You'll most likely already be operating as a Head of Land, Senior Land Manager ready to step up, or potentially an established Land Director looking for a more entrepreneurial environment.
You'll demonstrate:
A track record of securing residential land opportunities.
Commercial judgement and appraisal capability.
An a network of agents, landowners and professional contacts.
The ability to present opportunities with confidence.
The commercial discipline to pursue the right opportunities rather than simply increasing volume.
Why This Role?
This is a rare opportunity to build and lead a land function from the outset, working directly with the owners and playing a significant role in the future direction of the business.
If you're looking for greater influence, autonomy and the opportunity to help shape a growing developer, we'd welcome a confidential conversation.
Dan Petrie, Principal Consultant, Cognisant
07487 795148