Managing Director - Industrial Development - Macdonald & Company

Macdonald & Company is pleased to be partnered with a national industrial developer to find and appoint a Managing Director of Development in Chicago to serve as a market lead for the Midwest.

Opportunity:

An established industrial development company is seeking an experienced and dynamic Managing Director of Development/Market Lead to drive growth, oversee market operations, and lead the expansion of the Chicago office. This senior leadership role focuses on spearheading development projects, shaping strategic market initiatives, growing the team, and enhancing relationships with key stakeholders. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in industrial real estate, strong business acumen, and the ability to lead cross-functional teams. This is a unique opportunity to make a significant impact in a pivotal role, contributing to both market expansion and the company’s long-term success.

Responsibilities:

• Be an active participant in the Chicago industrial & logistics markets to source industrial investment opportunities, specifically development opportunities as well as value-add and core plus acquisitions.
• Establish and maintain active relationships with landowners, brokers, and landlords in the Chicago market.
• Prepare financial models, development budgets, investment committee presentations, and monthly financial reports.
• Manage project progress including monitoring, tracking, reporting on project progress, and working with the Construction team to ensure timely completion.
• Manage communication and interact effectively with key stakeholders responsible for completing various phases of projects, including community leaders, architects, consultants, contractors, and municipal staff.
• Manage proposals and RFP responses.
• Lead weekly update meetings regarding development and marketing efforts.
• Create, track, and manage proformas and project schedules.
• Generate, navigate, and expand relationships in the regional brokerage community.
• Direct coordination with the marketing department to ensure all collateral is up to date and relevant.
• Perform tasks such as generating agreements, invoices, procurement of contracts, preparing agendas, and ensuring meetings are scheduled, and performing lease abstracts.
• Lead project start-up and closeout meetings; manage jobsite progression, ensuring that all phases of a project are completed within specifications and on time.
• Prepare written materials documenting activities, providing written reference, and/or conveying information.
• Develop and execute a growth strategy for the Chicago office, including identifying opportunities to expand the team, office infrastructure, and market presence.
• Lead recruiting, hiring, and mentoring of new team members to scale operations and ensure alignment with company values and objectives.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to establish and track performance metrics, ensuring sustained growth and market competitiveness.
• Build and foster a high-performing team culture focused on excellence, innovation, and collaboration.
• Identify and pursue strategic partnerships or joint ventures to enhance the company’s development pipeline and market position.