Director Development Services
San Diego Unified Port District
San Diego, CA
Salary Estimate: $175,000.00 - $199,999.00
Employment Type: Full Time
Work Place: Office
Experience Required: 7+ to 10 years
Education Required: 4 Year College
Job Description
The Port of San Diego is conducting a class and compensation study, and the job title and duties for this position may be subject to change.
The Port is seeking a Director to lead the Development Services Department, overseeing the planning and review of development projects. This role offers a unique challenge, as the Port is a commercial real estate and maritime industrial seaport with no residential, general commercial, or general office development. The Director will manage environmental review and permitting processes for a wide range of projects, collaborating with over 800 lessees, sublessees, licensees, and development partners. Given the discretionary nature of the Port’s actions, the Director must demonstrate exceptional judgment, emotional intelligence, and effective decision-making.
The Port is seeking a Director to lead the Development Services Department, overseeing the planning and review of development projects. This role offers a unique challenge, as the Port is a commercial real estate and maritime industrial seaport with no residential, general commercial, or general office development. The Director will manage environmental review and permitting processes for a wide range of projects, collaborating with over 800 lessees, sublessees, licensees, and development partners. Given the discretionary nature of the Port’s actions, the Director must demonstrate exceptional judgment, emotional intelligence, and effective decision-making.
Position Overview
Under general direction, the Director of Development Services supervises professional, technical, and administrative staff, managing multiple aspects of the Port’s short-range planning, project reviews, business operations, and contract management. The role involves analyzing and recommending implementations for the Port’s master plan and coordinating environmental reviews for Port and tenant projects. The Director will resolve issues among key stakeholders and ensure compliance with policies, laws, and regulations such as the Coastal Act and the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). This role is exempt from classified service under the San Diego Unified Port District Act.
Under general direction, the Director of Development Services supervises professional, technical, and administrative staff, managing multiple aspects of the Port’s short-range planning, project reviews, business operations, and contract management. The role involves analyzing and recommending implementations for the Port’s master plan and coordinating environmental reviews for Port and tenant projects. The Director will resolve issues among key stakeholders and ensure compliance with policies, laws, and regulations such as the Coastal Act and the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). This role is exempt from classified service under the San Diego Unified Port District Act.
Distinguishing Characteristics
The Director of Development Services operates at a management level under the Vice President, with significant responsibility for leading the department and executing its operational goals. The position requires independent judgment, a thorough understanding of Port policies, and the ability to make high-level decisions in complex, evaluative situations. The Director will oversee the development of annual work plans and budgets, ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations, and manage departmental performance against objectives.
The Director of Development Services operates at a management level under the Vice President, with significant responsibility for leading the department and executing its operational goals. The position requires independent judgment, a thorough understanding of Port policies, and the ability to make high-level decisions in complex, evaluative situations. The Director will oversee the development of annual work plans and budgets, ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations, and manage departmental performance against objectives.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Leadership and Supervision: Directs strategic initiatives for the Development Services Department, analyzing work plans to achieve department goals and measures. Oversees departmental staff performance, coaching for improvement, preparing evaluations, and recommending rewards or disciplinary actions in accordance with Port policies.
- Staff Development: Supports staff development by selecting, training, and managing a competent and service-oriented team. The Director will also promote workplace diversity and create a positive employee relations environment.
- Liaison and Representation: Acts as a liaison between the Port and various stakeholders, including other governmental agencies, tenants, professional organizations, and elected officials. Facilitates and organizes planning activities and represents the Port in regional and national associations related to its mission.
- Public Relations and Outreach: Plans and implements public outreach activities to promote departmental programs. Oversees staff presentations to various groups, including tenants, community members, schools, and businesses. Develops materials for public engagement and facilitates public participation in departmental programs.
- Environmental and Land Use Planning: Directs the planning, implementation, and management of land use and environmental plans for Port and tenant development projects. Oversees environmental reviews, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local laws, as well as Port policies and procedures. This includes managing the development of technical reports, environmental documentation, and other relevant materials.
- Expert Guidance: Provides professional guidance to Port officials and managers on planning and environmental matters. Offers expert recommendations on complex issues related to land use, transportation, environmental impacts, and more. Advises and supports department heads in coordinating planning activities across divisions.
- Port Master Plan: Implements and manages the Port Master Plan, ensuring compliance with both short-range planning objectives and regulatory requirements. Manages amendments to the Master Plan and works to obtain approvals from the Board of Port Commissioners and the California Coastal Commission.
- Project Review: Oversees the review of Port and tenant development projects to ensure compliance with CEQA, Coastal Act, and other relevant laws. Resolves issues related to permits and approvals, managing the issuance of coastal development permits, and coordinating with other agencies.
- Contract Management: Develops and administers consultant contracts, negotiating terms, and ensuring compliance. Reviews invoices and resolves non-compliance issues when necessary.
- Grant Management: Identifies and secures funding from governmental agencies, foundations, and other sources, administering grants and loans for projects and departmental needs.
- Policy and Procedure Development: Reviews and recommends revisions to Port policies, including tenant lease requirements and project approval guidelines. Ensures adherence to federal and state environmental laws, as well as the Port’s asset management and stormwater policies.
Qualifications
The Director must have a comprehensive understanding of the Port’s policies, procedures, and legal requirements, including expertise in environmental and land use planning. The position requires significant experience in project management, regulatory compliance, and leadership within a public agency or similar environment. The Director must also demonstrate strategic thinking, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders.
The Director must have a comprehensive understanding of the Port’s policies, procedures, and legal requirements, including expertise in environmental and land use planning. The position requires significant experience in project management, regulatory compliance, and leadership within a public agency or similar environment. The Director must also demonstrate strategic thinking, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders.
Commitment to Diversity and Equity
The Port of San Diego values diversity and is committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive environment. The Director will play an integral role in promoting diversity, equity, and belonging within the department and across the Port’s operations.
The Port of San Diego values diversity and is committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive environment. The Director will play an integral role in promoting diversity, equity, and belonging within the department and across the Port’s operations.
General Information
This position does not offer telecommuting opportunities and is considered an unclassified service position under the San Diego Unified Port District Act, exempt from the classified service.
This position does not offer telecommuting opportunities and is considered an unclassified service position under the San Diego Unified Port District Act, exempt from the classified service.
Additional Duties
The Director will perform other duties as assigned by the Vice President and may be tasked with special projects or initiatives in line with the Port’s evolving needs.
The Director will perform other duties as assigned by the Vice President and may be tasked with special projects or initiatives in line with the Port’s evolving needs.
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