Asset Manager

Description:

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Asset Manager to provide strategic oversight and operational management across our property portfolio. This vital role encompasses all aspects of occupier management, fixed cost reduction, property data governance, and strategic estate planning, with a crucial focus on property acquisition and development.

The ideal candidate will possess exceptional leadership, a deep understanding of the commercial property market, and a proven track record in portfolio management and strategic site sourcing. You will be responsible for ensuring the physical quality, health, and safety of properties, managing property law compliance, and providing strategic advice to optimise business performance and facilitate growth through new site acquisition.

What You’ll Do

Property Acquisition and Development

    Site Identification: Proactively identify, assess, and qualify new sites that align with Ocado Retail’s strategic growth requirements, through effective networking and market analysis.
    Negotiation & Due Diligence: Lead commercial negotiations for the acquisition of new property interests. Oversee and manage comprehensive due diligence processes, including coordinating with internal stakeholders and external consultants.
    Transaction Management: Oversee the management of legal and professional processes associated with site acquisition, development agreements, and securing necessary consents, liaising closely with legal counsel.
    Development Advisory: Advise on and manage development schemes from inception to completion, ensuring projects enhance long-term property value, functionality, and operational capability.

Occupier Management & Estate Planning

    Lease Management: Coordinate all lease change events, including renewals, exercising break notices, rent reviews, and sub-lettings.
    Landlord Relationships: Oversee and manage strategic relationships with all landlords and property owners.
    Estate Management Processes: Establish, implement, and continuously improve robust estate management processes to maximise operational efficiency and portfolio performance.
    Strategic Planning: Engage in proactive estate planning, stay abreast of industry trends, and provide relevant insights and recommendations to stakeholders to optimise the overall property portfolio.
    Networking: Develop and nurture a high-value network of contacts with agents, developers, landlords, and other industry professionals.

Financial Management & Cost Reduction

    Cost Management: Strategically manage property fixed costs, including rent, business rates, service charges, insurance, and utilities, with a determined focus on reducing ongoing operating expenses.
    Budgeting & Forecasting: Provide accurate periodic budget information, detailed forecasts, and implement initiatives to optimise spending and achieve financial targets.

Physical Property Management & Compliance

    Health & Safety: Ensure rigorous compliance with all health and safety regulations, environmental standards, and all statutory requirements across the portfolio.
    Maintenance: Oversee the proactive and reactive response to dilapidations, repair notices, and planned preventative maintenance to maintain properties to a high standard.
    Legal Compliance: Manage comprehensive compliance with property law and legislation, liaising with external legal and consulting professionals as needed.

Property Data Management

    Data Integrity: Maintain accurate, up-to-date, and complete property data and records (e.g., leases, certificates, plans), ensuring compliance with internal policies and external regulations.
    Reporting: Utilise property data for strategic decision-making, performance evaluation, and providing detailed management reports.

Who You Are

    Education: Bachelor's degree in Real Estate, Property Management, Business Administration, or a related field (Master’s preferred).
    Professional Certification: Professional certifications such as RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) are essential.
    Experience: Minimum of 5 years of post-qualification experience in commercial property management or asset management, with demonstrable experience in property acquisition and development.
    Market Knowledge: Strong, current understanding of commercial property market dynamics, trends, and legal framework.
    Strategic & Problem Solving: Proven ability to develop and implement strategic solutions to complex property problems and portfolio challenges.
    Interpersonal Skills: Excellent communication, presentation, and negotiation skills, with the ability to build and maintain high-value internal and external relationships.
    Leadership: Exceptional leadership skills and a track record of successfully delivering complex projects on time and within budget.
    Technical Proficiency: Proficiency in property law, legislation, lease change events, property fixed cost management, and estate management processes.
    Working styles: Ability to plan, prioritise tasks effectively, manage multiple workstreams, and perform consistently under pressure.