Vice President-Land & Right Of Way

Primary Purpose JOB DESCRIPTION

The Vice President – Land & Right of Way (Capital Projects) is a critical executive leadership role responsible for providing strategic vision, operational oversight, and program management across all land acquisition, right of way, and land development activities supporting capital projects. This role leads and scales a high-performing team to secure and manage land assets globally, ensuring alignment with organizational goals, regulatory compliance, and project delivery requirements.

The VP will drive the development and implementation of standardized processes and business strategies to optimize land and right of way acquisitions, site development, permitting, and utility planning. This position requires a collaborative leader who can navigate complex legal, regulatory, and commercial landscapes while fostering strong partnerships across internal teams and external stakeholders.

Responsibilities Position Responsibilities: Strategic Leadership & Program Management

- Provide visionary leadership and strategic direction for all Land & Right of Way activities supporting capital projects, ensuring alignment with company objectives and long-term growth plans.

- Develop and implement global program standards, standardized operating procedures (SOPs), and best practices to ensure consistent, efficient, and compliant land acquisition and development processes.

- Lead high-stakes negotiations and manage critical agreements related to land acquisition, utility infrastructure (power, water, gas), zoning, permitting, and environmental compliance.

- Oversee budgeting, forecasting (CAPEX/OPEX), and resource allocation for land acquisition and development programs, ensuring cost-effective and timely delivery.

- Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational efficiency, risk management, and stakeholder satisfaction.

Team Leadership & Organizational Development

- Build, develop, and lead a diverse, high-performing team of land acquisition professionals, negotiators, and right of way specialists.

- Mentor and coach team members to enhance capabilities, promote career growth, and prepare future leaders.

- Foster a positive, inclusive, and collaborative culture emphasizing integrity, safety, regulatory compliance, and operational excellence.

Operational Oversight & Stakeholder Collaboration

- Oversee all legal and technical aspects of land acquisition, including title examination, deed transfers, easements, leaseholds, zoning, and mortgage issues.

- Manage relationships with internal partners (Engineering, Project Management, Legal, Acquisitions) and external stakeholders (landowners, regulators, contractors, public officials) to facilitate smooth project execution.

- Ensure land assets are development-ready by coordinating pre-construction activities such as site selection, permitting, utility planning, environmental studies, and survey management.

- Provide regular performance updates, risk assessments, and strategic recommendations to Executive Management.

Qualifications

⁠⁠Education & Experience

- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, Real Estate, or related discipline; advanced degree preferred.

- Minimum 10 years of progressive leadership experience in land acquisition, right of way, or real estate development within the energy, infrastructure, or related sectors.

- Proven track record managing complex land and Right of Way portfolios supporting large-scale capital projects, including global or multi-regional experience.

- Demonstrated success leading teams, driving strategic initiatives, and delivering results in dynamic, regulated environments.

Skills & Competencies

- Exceptional leadership, negotiation, and communication skills with the ability to influence at all organizational levels.

- Deep knowledge of real property law, title examination, land acquisition processes, zoning, permitting, and regulatory compliance.

- Strong financial acumen including budgeting, forecasting, and cost control.

- Experience developing and implementing SOPs and business strategies for land and right of way functions.

- Ability to manage multiple priorities, complex projects, and cross-functional teams effectively.

- Proficiency in MS Office and land management software applications.

Certifications & Licenses

- Valid driver’s license with a satisfactory driving record.

- Relevant certifications in real estate, project management, or related fields are a plus.

Physical & Working Conditions

- Primarily office-based with frequent site visits to operational and construction locations.

- Ability to work in varying weather conditions and navigate field environments as needed.

- May require occasional overtime and non-traditional hours.

- Must pass drug screening and background checks prior to employment.

- Yes, responsible for leading and managing Land & Right of Way personnel and contractors.

Supervisory Responsibility

- Yes, responsible for leading and managing Land & Right of Way personnel and contractors.

Preferred Education, Experience, Certifications, Competencies, Skills, & Abilities

Above the minimum requirements; not required but advantageous in this position:

- Advanced degree from an accredited institution in Business, Engineering, or a related discipline.

Other Responsibilities

- The above statements describe the general nature and level of work being performed. This position may perform other duties as assigned.

About Us

Tallgrass was named one of the 2023 Top Workplaces USA and highlighted in Colorado's Top Workplaces for the past seven consecutive years. Tallgrass is a leading energy infrastructure company focused on safely, reliably, and sustainably delivering the energy and services that power our nation and enable our quality of life.

At Tallgrass, we value our teams and strive to create an environment where employees feel respected, and their contributions are valued. We aim to support employees' physical, mental, and financial well-being through a comprehensive Total Rewards Program.

- Industry competitive pay

- Health insurance package options that include Flexible Spending & Health Savings Accounts

- Infertility Coverage

- Parental Leave

- 401(k) with up to a 6% match that vests immediately plus an employer discretionary contribution of up to 4%

- Wellness Programs and Mental Health Resources

- Employer-paid life insurance, short-term disability, and long-term disability coverage

- Critical Illness & Accident Insurance

- Vacation, sick days, paid caregiver leave, volunteer and bereavement paid time off

- Identity theft protection

- Annual discretionary bonus

- Generous Tuition Reimbursement Program

- Company-paid holidays and floating holidays

- Company vehicle (if applicable)

- Employee discounts; vehicles, tires, cellular plans, and more

- Networking and employee engagement events

- Personal development to grow your career with us based on your strengths and interests

Application Deadline:

Recruiting timelines vary by position; however, all Tallgrass positions accept applications for at least five business days from the posting date. This position is open and still accepting applications.

Compensation

: Compensation ranges are provided in good faith based on what we anticipate when researching wages for this position at the state and national levels. We may ultimately pay more or less than the posted range. This salary range may also be modified in the future.

Notice to External Search Firms

: Tallgrass does not accept unsolicited resumes from search firms or employment agencies. Unsolicited referrals and resumes are considered Tallgrass property; therefore, Tallgrass will not pay a fee for any placement resulting from the receipt of an unsolicited referral. Approved vendors may be invited to refer talent for specific positions at Tallgrass's request only. A fully executed agreement with Tallgrass must be in place and current in these cases.

EEO Statement:

Tallgrass complies with all Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) affirmative action laws and regulations. Tallgrass does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, religion, color, sex, national origin, marital status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender Identity and expression, disability, veteran status, pregnancy status, or other status protected by law.