Overview & Position Summary

This role leads the execution of land acquisition strategies that support the division’s growth objectives and ensure a consistent pipeline of future communities. The position provides strategic and operational leadership across land sourcing, underwriting, negotiation, and acquisition execution, translating business plans into actionable land investments. Working in a fast-paced, results-driven environment, the role partners closely with Finance, Sales, Construction, and Land Development to align acquisition decisions with operational capacity and market demand. The role also guides acquisition standards, decision-making, and team performance across the division.

Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and execute short-term operational land acquisition plans that support divisional inventory needs, absorption targets, and growth objectives.
•  Identify, source, and evaluate new land opportunities through market intelligence, broker relationships, direct outreach, and competitive analysis.
• Lead financial underwriting and feasibility analysis, including land acquisition and development proformas, risk assessment, and return analysis for senior leadership review.
• Direct negotiations with landowners, brokers, developers, and public agencies, including drafting and reviewing Letters of Intent (LOIs) and purchase agreements.
• Oversee due diligence efforts to evaluate entitlement status, zoning, development constraints, infrastructure requirements, and financial viability.
• Partner extensively with Finance, Sales, Construction, and Land Development to align acquisition timing, product strategy, and operational execution.
• Prepare and present acquisition recommendations, market updates, and investment analyses to senior leadership and investment committees.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with brokers, land sellers, municipalities, and consultants to enhance sourcing opportunities and local market insight.
• Monitor market trends, regulatory changes, and competitive activity to anticipate risks and identify strategic opportunities.
• Establish and reinforce acquisition processes, underwriting standards, and best practices to improve speed, consistency, and decision quality.
• Manage, mentor, and develop acquisition team members, setting expectations and driving accountability for results.

Education & Experience

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in business, real estate, finance, economics, planning, or a related field.
• 6–8 years of relevant professional experience in land acquisition, real estate development, or related disciplines; or 10–12 years of equivalent experience.

Preferred:

• Experience leading land acquisition strategy within residential homebuilding or large-scale community development.
• Experience managing teams of acquisition or development professionals.

Skills & Competencies

• Broad and advanced knowledge of land acquisition processes, valuation methods, entitlements, and real estate market dynamics.
• Strong strategic planning and decision-making abilities focused on short-term operational outcomes.
• Expertise in negotiation, deal structuring, and relationship management.
• Ability to interpret complex legal, environmental, and entitlement documentation and assess associated risks.
• Strong leadership capabilities, including team management, coaching, and performance development.
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills suited for internal leadership and external partners.
• Proficiency with financial modeling, market analysis tools, and GIS platforms.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and resolve complex challenges using analysis and prior experience.
• Collaborative mindset with the ability to influence policies and decisions across various functions.
• High level of business acumen, integrity, and sound judgment.

Working Conditions

Work is performed in a general office environment with regular travel to land sites, municipalities, industry events, and meetings with external partners. Site visits may include exposure to outdoor conditions, undeveloped terrain, and active construction environments. Occasional regional travel is required to support acquisition activities and strategic planning.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods when conducting office or analytical work.Ability to walk and evaluate undeveloped land sites with uneven terrain.Ability to lift and carry materials or equipment up to 20 pounds.Ability to operate standard office technology and field evaluation tools.

Comprehensive Benefits Package

We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to meet the diverse needs of our employees and their families: 

• Competitive Compensation: We provide a competitive compensation structure that rewards performance and results.
• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive coverage includes medical, dental, and vision insurance options, as well as Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA).
• Financial Future: Access a 401(k) retirement savings plan.
• Time Off: Our time-off benefits include vacation, sick leave, paid holidays, and other leave types (bereavement, jury duty, FMLA, military leave).
• Insurance & Protection: Company-provided life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) insurance, and short- and long-term disability coverage are included. An employee assistance program (EAP) is also available. 
• Exclusive Perks & Discounts
• Homeownership & Financing: Take advantage of exclusive home purchase and financing discounts.
• Pet Insurance: Enjoy discounted group pet insurance rates.

If you are ready for more than a job and seek a career with one of the most respected organizations in the industry, we encourage you to connect with us. Please visit our website at www.richmondamerican.com for additional information.