What are the responsibilities and job description for the Land Acquisition and Development Associate position at Stoa Group?
Job Summary: The Land Acquisition and Development Associate plays a vital role in identifying, evaluating, and acquiring land for potential development opportunities. This position involves conducting market research, building relationships with key stakeholders, underwriting potential development opportunities, and ensuring initial due diligence processes are vetted effectively. The role requires a collaborative mindset to work closely with the Director of Development, Asset Management, and Investment Committee to facilitate purchasing decisions and strategic growth initiatives.
Key Responsibilities:
- Market Research & Analysis:
- Identify and evaluate new markets for potential development opportunities, including the ability to stay current with industry trends.
- Survey and analyze land opportunities in both new and existing markets.
- Utilize tools such as Excel and GIS softwares to identify potential sites and assess market viability.
Stakeholder Engagement:
- Build and maintain relationships with brokers, landowners, developers, municipalities, and other stakeholders to source opportunities.
- Represent the company in meetings with 3rd party stakeholders and local municipalities to discuss potential development projects.
Due Diligence & Evaluation:
- Review land documentation, including flood maps, wetlands, topography, zoning ordinances, and other regulatory requirements.
- Assess the feasibility of prospective sites and identify potential project risks, ensuring alignment with development goals and target financial metrics.
- Collaborate with the team to analyze financial models and determine project viability.
Acquisition & Development Support:
- Prepare and present investment packages for purchasing approval to the Investment Committee.
- Draft and manage letters of intent and assist with negotiations with property owners.
- Negotiate terms and contracts with property owners and brokers to secure favorable land acquisition agreements.
- Track and log site opportunities, maintaining detailed records and spreadsheets.
Project Coordination:
- Work closely with the Director of Development and other internal teams to ensure smooth project transitions post-acquisition.
- Assist in developing project timelines, budgets, and strategic plans for development projects.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Real Estate, Business, Finance, Urban Planning, or related field preferred.
- 2 years of experience in real estate acquisitions, development, or a related role.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel; financial modeling certifications and experience with GIS or mapping software is a plus.
- Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to present to stakeholders and committees.
- High attention to detail and the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
Key Competencies:
- Self-starter with a curiosity-driven mindset and a commitment to continuous learning.
- Strong sense of accountability and the ability to work independently or in team settings.
- Analytical thinker with a focus on strategic solutions.
Working Conditions:
- Office-based role with frequent travel to site locations, municipality meetings, and industry events.
