Role Purpose

In this role, you will be the driving force behind the store development and expansion strategy across Leroy Merlin South Africa. Leveraging your expertise of the South African commercial real estate market and extensive professional network, your primary mission will be to identify, assess and secure strategic land opportunities for the development of future stores. You will lead project lifecycle by proactively engaging with landowners, developers, municipal authorities and all relevant project stakeholders to unlock viable development opportunities.

Key Responsibilities

• Market Analysis & Land Identification by conducting macroeconomic analyses, catchment area studies and competitive intelligence within target regions

• Lead site visits to validate geographical and commercial relevance as well as logistical access.

• Activate, expand and sustain a robust professional network of landowners, real estate developers, brokers and industry players across South Africa

• Proactively approach landowners directly to validate the availability and interest of selected land opportunities

• Organize and coordinate monthly joint site visits with the executive management team

• Participate in the preparation and development of expansion proposals, ensuring all relevant information is compiled and presented for review by the CEO of Leroy Merlin South Africa (LMSA)

• Monitor and follow up on land use change applications, including rezonings, subdivisions and consolidations

• Maintain and actively drive a pipeline of land opportunities at various stages of maturity to secure and adhere to thestore opening schedule

• Participate in strict governance structures (bi-monthly project progress committee)

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification in Real Estate, Property Development, Town Planning, Urban Planning, Construction Management, Engineering or a related field

• A relevant postgraduate qualification in Property Development, Real Estate, Town Planning, or Business Management will be advantageous

• 5+ years' relevant experience in land acquisition, property development, commercial real estate, town planning or retail expansion

• Proven experience in identifying, evaluating, and securing land opportunities for large-scale commercial, retail or property developments

• Sound understanding of town planning processes, including rezonings, subdivisions, consolidations, and other land-use applications

• Experience managing a pipeline of property or land opportunities and driving projects through multiple stages of development

• Strong stakeholder management, negotiation, networking and communication skills.

• Willingness to travel extensively across South Africa