Toby_needs@hotmail.co.uk

A highly motivated and results-driven professional with extensive experience in strategic land acquisition and development across residential, commercial, and mixed-use sectors. Possessing a proven track record of identifying and securing high-value, off-market opportunities, I excel in negotiation, market research, and stakeholder engagement. As a former Royal Marines Commando with seven years of service, I bring exceptional discipline, resilience, and leadership to every challenge.

Adept at managing complex projects and fostering productive relationships, I thrive in dynamic environments requiring innovative problem-solving and a proactive approach.

Group Land Director - Tritax Symmetry

(2022-07)

Established and led a new land department within the business, developing strategies for strategic land acquisition. Role concluded following a company restructure that excluded my position.

• Spearheaded negotiations and secured agreements, completing one option deal and advancing three agreements to Heads of Terms.
• Conducted market research and identified key opportunities for expansion into strategic residential and commercial projects.

Land Director - McCann Homes

(2019-02 - 2022-06)

• Identified and acquired off-market land opportunities across the Home Counties, securing eight sites through option, promotion, and strategic land agreements.
• Developed relationships with landowners and agents, fostering trust and ensuring long-term collaboration.
• Delivered innovative solutions to complex land acquisition challenges, driving business growth and profitability.

Senior Land Manager - CALA Group

(2018-06 - 2019-01)

Made redundant.

• Worked closely with the Land Director to identify, appraise, and acquire high-value residential development sites.
• Prepared detailed financial appraisals and cash flow models for main board approvals.
• Successfully contributed to expanding the company's regional land bank.

Land Manager - Aitch Group

(2017-11 - 2018-05)

• Identified and secured residential and mixed-use development sites in London (Zones 1–4) and the Home Counties.
• Negotiated terms with landowners and agents, ensuring alignment with company objectives.
• Conducted comprehensive market research and planning appraisals.

Land & Development Manager - Laragh Homes

(2015-01 - 2017-10)

• Acquired and managed five significant development opportunities, overseeing planning and financial viability assessments.
• Coordinated with external consultants to deliver projects on time and within budget.
• Led the implementation of Permitted Development Rights for key projects.

Land Buyer - Churchill Retirement Living

(2013-08 - 2015-11)

• Specialized in identifying and appraising sustainable development sites across the Northern and Eastern Home Counties.
• Conducted demographic and competitive analysis to inform land acquisition strategies.
• Developed strong relationships with agents and landowners to secure prime sites.

Commando - Royal Marines

(2009-01 - 2014-12)

• Served in a variety of roles, including as 2IC of my department during deployment to Afghanistan.
• Undertook specialist training at RM Poole, attached to the Special Boat Service.
• Developed leadership, resilience, and decision-making skills under high-pressure conditions.

GCSEs - Maths, English, Science, Geography, Spanish, Physical Education - Sharnbrook Upper School

GNVQ - Leisure and Tourism