Estate and Development Director
Salary: £85,000 - £90,000
About the role
Cornwall Airport Newquay is entering a once-in-a-generation transformation. At a time when regions across the UK are being challenged to define their economic futures, Cornwall is responding with bold ambition – and the airport sits at the heart of that story.
Already a critical gateway to the South West, Cornwall Airport Newquay is also home to one of the UK’s most exciting development opportunities. A new masterplan is shaping the future: an operational airport, a thriving commercial estate, a pioneering spaceport, and more than 200 acres of land ready for sustainable growth.
To realise this vision, we are seeking an outstanding Estate and Development Director. This is a leadership role of real influence reporting directly to the Managing Director and shaping the strategy that will deliver long-term value for Cornwall Council, investors, tenants, businesses, and communities across the region.
From land and facilities management to major infrastructure delivery, the role spans the full breadth of operational and commercial real estate. It demands vision, commercial acumen, and a strong sense of place.
This is your opportunity to help shape Cornwall’s future – and create a site of national significance.
About you
We are looking for a senior leader who combines strategic vision with the ability to deliver. You will bring a proven track record in estate strategy, land development, or large-scale infrastructure projects, with the commercial acumen to unlock value and the leadership skills to inspire confidence among diverse stakeholders.
You will be comfortable operating at pace and at scale, moving seamlessly between long-term masterplanning and the practicalities of land management, compliance, and lease negotiation. Your experience will demonstrate not only how to manage complex estates but how to grow them, ensuring they deliver against ambitious economic, environmental, and social goals.
Collaboration will be at the heart of your approach. You will thrive on building relationships with tenants, developers, investors, local authorities, and government partners, bringing credibility, clarity, and influence to every conversation. You will also be an empowering leader of teams and consultants, able to set a clear direction while fostering innovation and accountability.
Above all, you will have a strong sense of place and purpose. You will recognise the significance of Cornwall Airport Newquay to the region and see the opportunity to leave a legacy – creating a nationally important site that transforms Cornwall’s future.
Please view the full role profile by clicking here.
