We are seeking a dynamic, results-driven Vice President of Real Estate Development who is proactive, assertive, and a natural take-charge leader. This individual will thrive in fast-paced environments, acting decisively and leading with a strong technical and analytical mindset. The ideal candidate is not only an expert in real estate development but also excels in clear, concise communication and can engage with anyone—internal teams, external partners, and industry leaders alike. If you’re someone who sees opportunities before they arise, takes immediate action, and inspires others through your leadership, we want to hear from you!
Why Merus?
Formerly known as Al. Neyer, Merus combines more than 130 years of commercial real estate expertise with an integrated team of company owners. We specialize in the construction, development, ownership, and management of a diverse portfolio of real estate assets across a growing footprint in the eastern U.S.
We’re all owners here. This not only sets us apart but deeply influences our culture and operations. Every team member demonstrates a deeper sense of ownership and accountability — in both their daily tasks and the collective success of the organization. Learn more about our culture at www.merus1894.com.
More about this role…
The Vice President, Real Estate Development – Midwest Region plays a pivotal role in shaping the growth and success of Merus in the Cincinnati and Pittsburgh regional markets. This role leads all aspects of the development process, serving as a strategic advisor and trusted partner to internal teams and external stakeholders. With a focus on site acquisition, underwriting, entitlements, land planning, architectural and design decisions, construction, financing, marketing strategy, and lease-up, the VP ensures a seamless and efficient development lifecycle that aligns with Merus’ mission and vision.
This leadership role is responsible for fostering strong relationships within the industry, leveraging connections with real estate brokers, advisors, politicians, developers, service providers, and end-users to strengthen Merus' presence in the communities we serve. With an eye toward continuous growth and brand elevation, the VP will develop and execute strategies that position Merus as a premier leader in real estate development.
As the leader of the Cincinnati and Pittsburgh Development teams, this person will ensure that team members are equipped with the resources, guidance, and mentorship needed for success. This role actively collaborates with hiring leaders to assess talent needs and build strategic workforce plans that support sustainable development goals. The VP is committed to talent development, working closely with employees to establish career paths, provide coaching, and create opportunities for growth within the organization.
The VP will champion sustainable development practices, ensuring accountability for timely investment closings, effective construction owner’s representation, and successful leasing execution. Partnering with internal stakeholders, including the Talent Team, this role plays a key part in workforce planning and leadership development, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence.
To excel in this role, strong technical acumen is essential. Proficiency in utilizing data-driven insights to inform decision-making is required, and familiarity with development-related software and financial modeling tools is a plus. The ideal candidate brings a strategic mindset, a collaborative leadership style, and a passion for building impactful real estate projects that contribute to the long-term success of Merus and the communities we serve.
Essential Job Functions
- Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing real estate development team, fostering a culture of accountability, growth, and execution.
- Drive all aspects of development, including site/asset acquisition, underwriting, entitlements, land planning, design, construction, financing, and lease-up, ensuring successful project execution.
- Develop and implement strategic plans across all cities within the region, adapting to market opportunities and maximizing project success.
- Optimize and refine development processes, ensuring efficiency, accountability, and continuous improvement.
- Identify and solve complex project challenges, proactively addressing issues beyond standard development protocols.
- Leverage industry relationships to enhance the company’s market presence and strategic positioning.
- Expand and strengthen partnerships with brokers, advisors, policymakers, developers, service providers, and end-users to drive profitable business opportunities.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support business development efforts and position the company’s services as a top choice for prospective clients.
- Champion innovation and entrepreneurial thinking, ensuring projects are executed with both technical expertise and strategic foresight.
- Execute and oversee special initiatives and additional responsibilities as needed to drive business success.
- Other duties as assigned.
Essential Competencies
- Builds Effective Teams – Building strong-identity teams that apply their diverse skills and perspectives to achieve common goals.
- Attracts Top Talent – Attracting and selecting the best talent to meet current and future business needs.
- Financial Acumen – Interpreting and applying understanding of key financial indicators to make better business decisions.
- Cultivates Innovation – Creating new and better ways for the organization to be successful.
- Drives Engagement – Creating a climate where people are motivated to do their best to help the organization achieve its objectives.
- Values Differences – Recognizing the value that different perspectives and cultures bring to an organization.
- Manages Ambiguity – Operating effectively, even when things are not certain or the way forward is not clear.
What does success look like for this role?
- Effectively providing strategic guidance and serving as a mentor to internal employees.
- Taking an entrepreneurial approach, proactively identifying opportunities, owning projects, and collaborating effectively to drive results within.
- Successfully managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
- Engaging professionally and confidently with external partners, including planning commissions and government bodies, as well as internal teams across all levels of the organization.
- Staying connected in the industry through education, networking, and ongoing skill development.
Qualifications and Experience
- 15+ years of commercial real estate experience in development, finance, or civil engineering.
- Bachelor’s degree required in Business, Finance, Civil Engineering, Law, or Planning; MBA or JD preferred.
- Proven leadership and project management skills, with a track record of driving initiatives through creativity, organization, and strong people skills.
- Deep expertise in real estate finance, including financial models and data-driven decision-making.
- Established industry network, recognized as a leader among brokers, advisors, and policymakers in the commercial real estate market.
Safety Hazard of the Job
Normal safety hazards associated with office work, and with occasional observational visits to construction sites.
Physical Demands
Low physical effort required to sit, stand at files, bend, stoop, lift, and walk. Maximum unassisted lift is 35 lbs. Average lift is less than 10 lbs. Requires ability to use a keyboard and monitor. Also requires the ability to communicate verbally, both in person and on the telephone. May require some travel by car or plane.
Environmental Requirements
Average inside office environment. Average office noise levels. No personal protective equipment is required. Ambient temperature is between 68F and 76F.
This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. The employee will also perform other reasonably related business duties as assigned by their immediate supervisor and other management as required. This job description is not a contract or offer for employment, and either you or Merus may terminate employment at any time for any reason.
