Residential Leasing and Business Development Executive

Due to ongoing expansion, we are seeking a highly experienced and motivated Residential Business Development Executive with a strong commercial background to drive the occupancy and leasing for our co-living and PRS properties. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in providing sales and leasing within the housing sector, with specific experience in the co-living and PRS markets. The role requires a hands-on approach to work alongside the operational teams maintaining the smooth running of our impressive circa 2000 bed development at Square Gardens.

Downing are a leading provider of co-living and private rented sector (PRS) accommodation based in the heart of Manchester. We are dedicated to creating vibrant, community-focused living spaces that offer convenience, comfort, and a sense of belonging. Our latest development “Square Gardens” is centred around green and open landscaped spaces, delivering a sustainable place to live and gather with exclusive shared resident amenities and services.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute sales and marketing strategies to attract and retain tenants, maximise occupancy, and drive revenue.
• Manage the full lettings process, from tenant screening to lease agreements ensuring all customer data platforms are up to date.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with 3rd party businesses and agents, arranging meetings/site tours to promote the scheme and the Build to Rent Portfolio.
• Conduct in-person and virtual property viewings, ensuring a seamless leasing experience.
• Work with the centralised marketing team to execute marketing campaigns and ensuring that the show flat is promoted in the best way.
• Deliver exceptional customer service, addressing tenant enquiries and fostering a positive community.
• Organise and host regular events/activities to enhance customer experience, drive engagement, promote retention and encourage prospective tenants.
• Monitor market trends, pricing, and competition to inform sales strategies and reports.
• Track sales & marketing performance, prepare reports, and refine strategies to meet financial targets.
• Conduct competitor analysis to identify market trends.
• Collaborate with head office and on-site teams, ensuring smooth operations and effective communication.

Key Requirements:

• Demonstrated experience in sales within the PRS or co-living properties.
• Strong understanding of sales strategies and techniques.
• In-depth knowledge of the Manchester market, including trends, pricing, and competition.
• Able to foster relationships with new customers and proactively identify new business via corporate and institution partnership opportunities.
• Strong understanding of current rental legislation and ability to keep up to date of ongoing changes.
• Possess a friendly, confident and engaging personality, able to communicate effectively and professionally, build strong relationships and monitor incentives with current and potential residents and 3rd party agencies and stakeholders.
• Confidence in attending external networking events to maximise opportunities and promote Square Gardens in Manchester.
• Use initiative to enhance the reputation of the building and think outside of the box to increase business revenue.
• Awareness and appreciation of cultural differences, ideally with experience of working with international customers.
• Ability to influence, adapt and be motivated in exceeding resident expectations and sales targets.
• Professional presentation, confident and outgoing in nature.
• Strong organisational, time-management and administrational skills with the ability to successfully multi-task.
• Adaptable, able to learn quickly and use own initiative – thrives under pressure and able to meet deadlines.
• A commitment to providing exceptional customer service.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Experience with KX, Canva, MRI or HubSpot preferred but not essential.