Head of Property & Estates in London

Hybrid – London Based | 3 days in office

This is a rare opportunity for an experienced property professional to take full ownership of a varied and meaningful portfolio — residential properties, commercial buildings, and historic monuments across the UK — on behalf of a respected veterans charity. Reporting to the Director of Resources, and with regular reporting responsibility to trustees and directors at board level, you will provide strategic and operational leadership across property management, facilities, and maintenance. You will ensure statutory compliance, manage budgets effectively, and lead a dedicated in‑house team, while overseeing a network of external chartered surveyors, contractors, and suppliers. A key part of the role is maximising the value of the portfolio. You will develop and implement disposal strategies to achieve best value on property sales, maintain proactive programmes to keep assets in excellent condition, and ensure ongoing regulatory compliance across the estate.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee a diverse property portfolio including cost management, quality control, and statutory compliance
• Develop and deliver maintenance plans within agreed budgets, with an eye on long‑term asset value
• Manage property acquisitions, disposals, and adaptations in line with Charity Commission guidelines — including strategies to maximise sale value
• Procure and monitor property service contracts, working with the Procurement Manager to ensure value for money
• Lead property valuations working closely with chartered surveyors
• Act as lead on health and safety compliance, including risk assessments and annual audits
• Liaise with operational teams on rents, repairs, adaptations, and beneficiary support
• Engage with relevant Local Authorities on building and monument matters
• Provide clear, confident board‑level reporting to trustees and directors on all property matters
• Line manage, develop, and inspire the property team

What We Are Looking For

Essential

• Minimum five years property management experience within a housing portfolio
• Knowledge of building management legislation and statutory requirements
• Experience of property valuation, contract negotiation, and portfolio reporting
• Proven ability to present confidently at board or trustee level
• Strong people management skills with a track record of leading and developing teams
• Demonstrable experience of working alongside or instructing chartered surveyors
• Experience of developing and implementing strategies to maximise property value at disposal and maintain assets to a high standard
• Driving licence and willingness to travel UK‑wide on occasion

Desirable

• NEBOSH qualification or membership of the Chartered Institute of Housing
• Familiarity with Housing Management Systems
• Understanding of the wider UK housing environment including devolved nations
• Some connection, commitment to, or understanding of the Armed Forces community

Why Apply

The remit is broad, the role carries real authority, and the work genuinely matters. This is an organisation that exists to make a lasting difference to the lives of veterans — and the property function is central to delivering that mission.