Plus Dane Housing: New Business Manager

The New Business Manager will support the Head of Growth to create and deliver a development pipeline in line with Plus Dane Housing business plan and growth strategy for new-build construction developments across Merseyside and Cheshire. They will lead on all aspects of all new business-related pre-contract development through effective management and partnership working.

It's an exciting time to join Plus Dane as our Board approved our 3 year Growth Strategy in 2024, giving us a clear mandate to develop new homes for our customers and a healthy pipeline of new opportunities. We currently have Board approval to progress development of over 1000 homes and have a strong pipeline of new opportunities pending appraisal and approval. With an existing strong network of contacts including contractors, developers, local authorities and Homes England, the successful candidate will be confident in nurturing new relationships, appraising new opportunities and building strong business cases for our Board to approve investment.

We have a strong history of development, building a range of general needs, sheltered and extra care homes which have helped meet local need. We have also grown into an organisation with a track record in shared ownership, helping our customers to get on the property ladder in ways they may not otherwise be able to. However, our roots firmly remain in social housing, supporting customers to access homes in our core neighbourhoods at an affordable price. We own over 13,500 homes across Cheshire and Merseyside, providing a home to over 30,000 customers. Alongside these homes, we also offer much needed support, advice and services to help customers live comfortably in their homes or to enrich their lives. Fulfilling our social purpose is something that has remained firm throughout our history.

Reporting into the Head of Growth for the Development team overseeing new business opportunities across Merseyside and Cheshire. Have responsibility for the pre-contract stages of Plus Dane's growth strategy; acquisitions, design/planning, procurement and contractor negotiations. Manage projects compliantly, particularly in terms of securing funding and progressing schemes through Plus Dane's internal approval process.

Have a passion for good design, and present new opportunities to Plus Dane's Design Review Group to ensure schemes are designed thoughtfully with future proofing, quality and customer wellbeing central to design. Be efficient at leading design teams in preparing and progressing new schemes through the planning process including consultation with internal and external stakeholders.

Work closely with colleagues from Plus Dane's Homes, Communities and Customer directorates, ensuring that future growth aspirations are delivered in a manner that meets the strategic and operational requirements of the business. Have excellent interpersonal and presentation skills and the ability to establish and use appropriate networks and contacts to deliver new business.

Adopt a commercial approach to bring forward deliverable and viable new development opportunities including through grant subsidised, section 106, land, joint venture and other opportunities and funding routes as appropriate. Be an effective negotiator and be familiar with a variety of legal and contractual arrangements, and how to limit risk and protect Plus Dane's interest. Work closely with the Assets team to assess existing stock and regeneration potential.

A strong academic background with a professional qualification in a relevant technical area or equivalent experience. Proven track record in identifying new construction development opportunities for growth ideally within the housing sector. Skilled in building relationships and developing new partnership opportunities. Ability to scrutinise designs and work with architects to maximise development potential while ensuring designs are fit for purpose. Experienced in using development appraisal software to assess the viability of new opportunities. Commercial acumen to manage budgets and cashflows. Understanding of using Frameworks and compliant procurement methods. Ability to work to regulatory requirements from a construction side (planning, building regulations, CDM) and internal governance (internal compliance, Homes England CFG). Proven track record working with contractors and cost consultants to scrutinise costs and ensure value for money. Driving license and access to own vehicle.

Job Offer: £57,684 + 2025 pay award & increase, Car allowance of £1,100, 35 days annual leave + bank holidays, 8% matched contribution pension scheme, Agile & hybrid working, Continual professional development opportunities, Cash healthcare plan, Employee assistance programme, Shopping discounts.