Manager, RioCan Living, Product Development (12 months)

Who We Are

RioCan is one of Canada's largest Real Estate Investment Trusts (REIT). We own, manage and develop retail-focused, increasingly mixed-use properties in Canada's major markets. We pioneered the REIT concept over 30 years ago and have transformed Canadian real estate.

We are proud to be recognized as one of Canada's Greenest Employers and a Greater Toronto's Top Employer. At RioCan, you can build a career with real impact and longevity. You get the stability and resources of an established company and the entrepreneurial and collaborative spirit of a start-up. Life at RioCan is dynamic and fast-paced. We know that great ideas can come from anywhere, and we empower our people to suggest and implement them. We value different voices and perspectives and appreciate that the unique backgrounds and identities we each bring to our jobs make the whole business stronger. 

POSITION OVERVIEW:

This role is located at our Yonge Eglinton Office and reports to the AVP, RioCan Living Marketing, Sales & Product Development. We are seeking a strategic and detail-oriented Manager, Residential Product Development to join our team on a 12-month contract to cover parental leave. This role is responsible for leading the product development process from market research through design and implementation, ensuring our residential projects meet market demands, financial objectives, and customer expectations.

The successful candidate will bring expertise in market analysis, product design, and development processes while collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality, innovative residential communities.

Why Join Us?

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the future of residential development while gaining valuable experience in a dynamic and growing organization. You’ll be part of a collaborative team dedicated to creating exceptional living spaces through thoughtful design, research-driven insights, and industry-leading innovation.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Market Research & Competitive Analysis

• Conduct thorough market research to identify appropriate competitive sets, analyze trends, and inform product positioning;
• Utilize research databases (e.g., Zonda, Urbanation, MLS) to gather insights on pricing, unit mix, parking ratios, and competitor offerings;
• Make data-driven recommendations on unit sizes, design efficiencies, and revenue assumptions for single-tower and master-planned communities.




Product Design & Innovation

• Lead floorplan optimization, ensuring layouts maximize livability, efficiency, and market appeal;
• Provide guidance on finish selections, balancing durability, aesthetics, and cost;
• Assess mechanical, electrical, and architectural drawings to enhance unit functionality and overall resident experience;
• Collaborate with internal teams and consultants to develop innovative product strategies that differentiate our developments.




Consultant & Stakeholder Management

• Lead engagements with third-party consultants, including market researchers, architects, and interior designers;
• Manage the selection, contract negotiation, and project oversight of interior design consultants;
• Collaborate with marketing, sales, and operations teams to ensure alignment between product design and business objectives.

 

Development Process & Execution

• Review architectural and engineering drawings, ensuring alignment with project standards, constructability, and design intent;
• Respond to RFIs, review shop drawings and material samples, and participate in value engineering exercises;
• Identify and resolve design and construction issues throughout the development process;
• Provide strategic input into site planning, landscape design, and building amenities to enhance tenant experience and project success.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s Degree/Diploma in Business Management, Marketing, Construction, Interior Design, Real Estate or a related field;
• 5+ years of experience in residential product development, real estate development, or market research;
• Strong knowledge of market research methodologies, competitive analysis, and residential product positioning;
• Ability to manage multiple projects, consultants, and deliverables in a fast-paced environment;
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to synthesize data into actionable insights;
• Effective presentation and communication skills, with the ability to engage stakeholders and influence decision-making;
• Strong understanding of value engineering principles and cost optimization strategies;
• Experience managing third-party consultants and contract negotiations.

Why join RioCan?

We believe in rewarding you for what you do and investing in your career and long-term success. Our total rewards and perquisites program is designed to fit and enrich your life physically, emotionally, financially, and socially. We offer eligible employees:

Work / Life Balance that prioritizes YOU. Enjoy a hybrid work model with flexible work hours, an extra-long weekend with our RioCan Cares Day, and half days before every long weekend in the summer.

Professional Growth and Development that includes a continuing education reimbursement, a mentorship and leadership development program, on-demand online learning, and cross-training opportunities.

An Extensive Health and Benefits Program that includes health and dental benefits for you and your family starting on day one, a healthcare spending account, an employee family and assistance program, virtual healthcare, and other resources.

A Comprehensive Retirement Program to help prepare our employees for the future. This includes matching employee contributions in a retirement savings plan, pension plan, and an employee unit purchase plan.

Additional Perks and Benefits that include paid time off, parental leave top-up, various employee discounts, employee referral and recognition programs, and opportunities to participate in community initiatives, committees, and social events throughout the year.

We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment where all employees are valued, included, and empowered to do their best work and bring great ideas. People are at the core of who we are, and we respect that they have taken all paths to get here. RioCan welcomes applications from all candidates and is committed to providing accommodations for people with disabilities. If you require accommodation at any stage of the application process, please let us know, and we will be happy to work with you to meet your needs.