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- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team in managing estates and river works for the Port of London Authority.
- Company: Join the UK's largest port, pivotal to the economy and committed to improving the River Thames.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days leave, private medical insurance, and a generous pension among other perks.
- Why this job: Be part of a diverse role that drives innovation and sustainability along the iconic River Thames.
- Qualifications: Seeking problem solvers with negotiation skills and a passion for estate management.
- Other info: This role offers a hands-on approach and the chance to influence the future of the Thames.
The predicted salary is between 96130 - 106108 £ per year.
The Port of London Authority (PLA) is the UK’s biggest port, central to the country’s economy and ambitions for growth. We connect the UK to the world, but we are much more than a conventional port. We are driven by our purpose to protect and improve the 95 mile stretch of the River Thames which is tidal – from Teddington Lock on the border of Surrey, through the heart of London, Kent, Essex and out to the North Sea.
The role holder will lead a team of six and be responsible for estate management across the PLA which includes the existing estate with PLA & third-party occupation, river works license consideration and acquisitions. The successful candidate needs to be dynamic and enthusiastic with a level of entrepreneurial ability and the willingness to take a hands-on approach. This is a diverse role and looking at industrial sites and river structures is something the candidate will need an enthusiasm for.
The role requires someone who is a problem solver, likes a challenge and is a skilled negotiator. Our customer base ranges from large shipping terminals to house-boat owners to local authorities and Transport for London. The ability to be able to develop and build relationships is key. This role will work closely with the CFO and is a key role in the senior management team.
Part of the PLA's strategy is to diversify its income stream and encourage greater use of the river. In the context of this role that means that there have been some recent land acquisitions adjoining the Thames which brings old Wharves back into use. The Head of Estates will be instrumental in driving this strategy, from identification of sites, to assessing the feasibility for future benefit and seeing the transaction through to completion. This will require someone who can work up a business case but also can walk a site and understand the potential pitfalls of its structural make up and appoint an operator to lease the site and bring it back into use.
Benefits package:
- 30 days annual leave (plus Bank Holidays)
- Private Medical Insurance
- Generous pension
- Onsite parking with electric charging
- Access to Occupational Health, Mindfulness, Counselling and Physiotherapy
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Car-leasing scheme (Tusker Cars)
- Access to MyGym Discounts
For further information or if you would like to have an informal discussion about the position, please contact Steven Lockwood, Chief Financial Officer (steven.lockwood@pla.co.uk).
The PLA are not registered with the UK Home Office and do not sponsor candidates who require a visa or work permit to work in the UK, therefore an offer of employment cannot be made unless you currently hold the rights to live and work in the UK.
Head of Estates employer: Port of London Authority
Contact Detail:
Port of London Authority Recruiting Team
steven.lockwood@pla.co.uk
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Estates
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Port of London Authority's recent projects and initiatives. Understanding their current strategies, especially around diversifying income streams and land acquisitions, will help you demonstrate your enthusiasm and alignment with their goals during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the estate management and port operations sectors. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with individuals who can provide insights into the role and the PLA's work culture.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your problem-solving skills and negotiation experience in detail. Think of specific examples where you've successfully navigated challenges or closed deals, as these will be crucial in showcasing your fit for the dynamic nature of this role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the various stakeholders you'll be working with, from shipping terminals to local authorities. Understanding their needs and how you can build relationships with them will be key to demonstrating your capability to manage diverse interests effectively.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Estates
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and requirements of the Head of Estates position. Highlight key skills such as problem-solving, negotiation, and relationship-building in your application.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect your experience in estate management and any relevant projects you've led. Use specific examples that demonstrate your entrepreneurial ability and hands-on approach.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the role and the PLA's mission. Discuss how your background aligns with their goals, particularly in diversifying income streams and managing industrial sites.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, emphasise any previous roles where you managed estates or worked on similar projects. Include details about your experience with site assessments, business case development, and stakeholder engagement.
How to prepare for a job interview at Port of London Authority
✨Show Your Enthusiasm for the Role
Make sure to express your passion for estate management and the unique challenges it presents. The Port of London Authority values candidates who are dynamic and enthusiastic, so share specific examples of your previous experiences that demonstrate your excitement for the role.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to discuss past situations where you successfully navigated challenges in estate management or negotiations. Highlight your ability to think critically and creatively when faced with obstacles, as this is a key requirement for the Head of Estates position.
✨Build Rapport with Interviewers
Since relationship-building is crucial for this role, practice engaging with your interviewers. Show genuine interest in their roles and the PLA's mission, and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to fostering strong relationships with various stakeholders.
✨Understand the Business Case Development
Familiarise yourself with the process of developing business cases for land acquisitions and site assessments. Be prepared to discuss how you would approach identifying potential sites and evaluating their feasibility, as this will be a significant part of your responsibilities.
