General Manager – Land Acquisition

Job Description: General Manager – Land Acquisition
Location: Bengaluru (with potential travel to other locations)
Reports to: Chairman cum Managing Director (CMD)
Direct Reports: Assistant General Manager – Business Development, Land Acquisition Team Leads, Market Research Analysts

Role Summary:

The General Manager (GM) – Land Acquisition will be the senior-most leader responsible for driving the strategic vision, planning, and execution of land acquisition initiatives to align with Sumadhura's long-term business objectives. As a critical member of the leadership team, this role will work closely with the CMD to identify, evaluate, and secure land opportunities that expand Sumadhura's footprint in key markets, including multi-city domestic growth and potential international ventures. The GM will lead, mentor, and oversee the entire land acquisition function, ensuring integration with corporate strategy, operational excellence, and financial discipline.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership & Planning

·       Develop and execute a comprehensive land acquisition strategy aligned with Sumadhura's vision for growth and sustainability.

·       Partner with CMD and executive leadership to define land portfolio expansion plans supporting the organization's future pipeline and business objectives.

·       Lead market intelligence efforts to identify emerging opportunities and risks in target geographies.

·       Drive innovation and adoption of best practices in land identification, acquisition processes, and regulatory compliance.

Operational Oversight

·       Oversee the end-to-end land acquisition lifecycle, including opportunity sourcing, feasibility studies, site evaluations, negotiations, due diligence, and transaction closure.

·       Collaborate across functions including Legal, Finance, Planning, and Construction to ensure timely and cost-effective acquisitions.

·       Review, approve, and monitor budgets, timelines, and investment returns related to land deals.

·       Ensure strict adherence to zoning laws, environmental regulations, and corporate governance standards.

Team Leadership & Development

·       Lead, develop, and inspire a high-performing team of land acquisition professionals and analysts.

·       Establish clear performance metrics, succession plans, and continuous learning initiatives within the team.

·       Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and strategic thinking aligned with Sumadhura's values. 

Stakeholder Engagement

·       Build and maintain strategic relationships with landowners, local authorities, industry bodies, consultants, and other key external stakeholders.

·       Represent Sumadhura in negotiations, partnerships, and forums impacting land acquisition and real estate development.

·       Provide regular land feasibility reports and strategic insights to the CMD, Board, and other senior leaders.

Qualifications & Experience:

·       Minimum 15-20 years of progressive experience in land acquisition, real estate development, or related infrastructure sectors, preferably within an in-house developer or large real estate enterprise.

·       Proven track record of leading strategic land acquisition initiatives, including multi-location and complex projects.

·       Strong understanding of regulatory frameworks, land valuation techniques, feasibility analysis, and negotiation strategies.

·       Demonstrated ability to influence senior stakeholders and manage cross-functional teams.

·       Excellent communication, leadership, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

·       Relevant educational background: MBA or equivalent preferred; Degree in Civil Engineering, Urban Planning, Law, or Real Estate Management advantageous.

Key Competencies:

·       Strategic Thinking & Visionary Leadership

·       Market & Financial Acumen

·       Negotiation & Relationship Management

·       Regulatory & Compliance Expertise

·       Team Building & Talent Development

·       Decision-Making under Complexity

·       Communication & Presentation Excellence

Performance Metrics:

·       Successful closure of strategic land acquisitions aligned with pipeline targets.

·       Achievement of budget adherence and ROI benchmarks for land purchase projects.

·       Team performance and development indicators.

·       Compliance with governance and regulatory standards.

·       Contribution to long-term organizational growth and market expansion.