Director, Development Projects
Job Description
At Pursuit, we offer more than just a place to visit, we create opportunities for our guests to truly connect with iconic destinations. Our experiences include world-class attractions and distinctive lodges, all designed to highlight the unique beauty of each location. Beyond that, we offer thoughtfully crafted restaurants, retail, and transportation services that help our guests immerse themselves fully in the experience. What ties it all together are the friendly faces you’ll find along the way, the thoughtful amenities, and the delightful details that make every visit feel personal and unforgettable.
Pursuit Hospitality is seeking a visionary and results-driven Director of Development Projects to lead the planning, execution, and delivery of high-impact hospitality construction initiatives across our expanding portfolio. This role is instrumental in driving Pursuit’s growth strategy through strategic site development, innovative experience design solutions, and rigorous construction management of both new builds and major renovations.
This position will lead and guide a cross-functional team and manage a diverse pipeline of projects including lodging, immersive attractions and culinary experiences in iconic locations. The ideal candidate has deep experience in hospitality construction and thrives in a high-growth, fast-paced environment.
Strategic Development & Planning
Partner with executive leadership to shape and execute a capital development roadmap aligned with business objectives and brand vision.
Evaluate potential sites and provide technical due diligence and feasibility asessments.
Translate growth initiatives into viable construction projects, integrated experience design, quality, budget, and timelines.
Project Leadership
Oversee Project Management team through all phases of development projects—from feasibility, pre-development through final delivery—across multiple geographies.
Establish robust project governance, budgeting, scheduling, and risk management protocols.
Lead internal development team members, external architects, engineers, contractors, and consultants.
Stakeholder Management
Collaborate with internal departments (executive, revenue, brand, IT, legal, finance, operations, marketing, procurement) to ensure project integration and alignment.
Act as the primary liaison with municipal officials, permitting agencies, and local stakeholders.
Regularly report project status, risks, and opportunities to executive leadership.
Team Leadership & Culture
Build, mentor, and inspire a high performing construction and project management team.
Foster a culture of accountability, sustainability, safety, and continuous improvement.
SKILLS, QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:
Bachelor’s degree in construction management, Architecture, Civil Engineering, or related field; Master’s degree preferred.
10+ years of experience in construction development, with at least 5 in a senior leadership capacity within the hospitality, resort, or experiential real estate sectors.
Proven track record of delivering complex, multi-million-dollar development projects on time and within budget.
Deep understanding of construction methods, codes, contracts, and project controls.
Exceptional leadership, communication, and negotiation skills.
Ability to travel as needed to project sites in Alaska, Montana and other locations in North America (up to 40%).
Passion for hospitality, design, and creating unforgettable guest experiences. Famliarity with sustainable building practices and LEED/green building standards.
Experience working in remote or environmentally sensitive areas (e.g., national parks, protected sites).
Resilient, adaptable, and entrepreneurial mindset.
#LI-KO1
About Us:
We're more than a hospitality and attractions company. We connect people to iconic places through unforgettable and inspiring experiences; Our team members included.
Thoughtfully united by their unique power to inspire and invigorate, our collection of hotels and lodges, recreational attractions, ground transportation services, retail, food and beverage, sightseeing, tours, and travel products are tied together by iconic, destination-worthy locations in Alaska, Montana, the Canadian Rockies, Reykjavík and Costa Rica.
Pursuit is a publicly traded company listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol PRSU. As a member of the S&P SmallCap 600 index, we specialize in attractions-led hospitality, consistently generating revenue and delivering value to our shareholders.
What will your work environment be like?
At Pursuit, our locations are more than just a place to work – it’s a space where you can bring your whole self, collaborate with talented teams across departments, and build lasting friendships. We believe in fostering an environment where work and play coexist, so whether you’re tackling projects or enjoying our many perks, you’ll feel supported and valued. With a variety of great benefits, we’re committed to ensuring that your time with us is as fulfilling as it is fun.
Our team shares a passion for adventure and an authentic desire to play host to the world. We are united by our connection to the people and places we’re lucky to call home. Our workforce is diverse. Our team members come here to embrace the extraordinary. To watch the sunrise and set each day in a place that, for many people, exists only in their imagination. To build career experience beside seasoned professionals a community of people who say ‘yes’ to adventure time and time again. To be a part of the #PursuitLife and live each day with purpose, turning moments into memories
PURSUIT PERKS
Join an inclusive, global team and make life-long connections
Enjoy free access to Pursuit attractions and 50% off for friends
Get discounts on hotel stays, dining, and retail
Access subsidized mental health and wellness resources
Equal Employment Opportunities Information
Pursuit is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity in the workplace. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, age, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, and other protected characteristics. Pursuit places a high value on diverse backgrounds and experiences, recognizing that they serve as catalysts for creativity and innovation. We encourage individuals who are eligible to work in the country where the role is located to apply and join our inclusive team! We are working to eliminate barriers for applicants and team members from equity-deserving groups. If you can’t apply online or need accommodation during the application or hiring process, please contact our Talent & Acquisition Team at [email protected].
We thank all candidates for their interest; however, please note that only applicants selected for further consideration will be contacted directly.