At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and transform the council's property function with strategic direction and innovative management.
- Company: Rushmoor Borough Council, a forward-thinking organisation committed to property excellence.
- Benefits: Influential role with opportunities for professional growth and impactful leadership.
- Why this job: Shape the future of property management in a dynamic and supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in property management, strong leadership skills, and a proactive approach.
- Other info: Join a capable team and drive meaningful change in a collaborative setting.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
I’m pleased to be partnering exclusively with Rushmoor Borough Council to appoint their next Corporate Property & Estates Service Manager. This is a uniquely exciting opportunity to join a council that is genuinely ahead of the curve in its ambition, strategic clarity and organisational commitment to transforming its property function. Very few councils are operating with this level of alignment, momentum and readiness for change - making this a standout role for an experienced and forward‑thinking property leader.
The Opportunity
Rushmoor Borough Council are in the process of adopting a new Asset Management Strategy with strong backing from both senior officers and Cabinet Members. There is clear organisational commitment to strengthening how the council plans, manages and governs its property portfolio, and this role will be central to driving that work forward. Property is a genuine priority for the leadership team. They are looking for someone who can provide clarity, strategic direction and confident leadership of a modern, high‑performing service. This role is about accelerating delivery, shaping culture and offering visible leadership as the strategy moves from intention to implementation. You will work closely with senior stakeholders throughout this process, providing the assurance, insight and direction as the strategy progresses.
Role Overview
As Corporate Property & Estates Service Manager, you will lead the council’s investment portfolio and operational estate, ensuring strategic delivery, strong governance and a more integrated, commercially aware approach to asset management. You will lead and support a multidisciplinary team, including:
- Direct Reports
- Investment Portfolio Manager
- Estate Manager (Operational & Community)
- Senior Project & Maintenance Manager
- Compliance & Facilities Manager
This is an established and capable team, what they need now is a leader who can set clear direction, inspire confidence and guide the service forward.
Core Focus Areas
- Deliver the Asset Management Strategy and ensure property activity aligns with corporate priorities
- Ensure the estate provides an efficient, adaptable platform for service delivery and function
- Strategic focus of targeted investment and maintenance across the portfolio in line with the AMS
- Provide strategic oversight of the investment portfolio and key asset decisions
- Lead asset planning, performance frameworks and the use of data to drive improvement
- Ensure effective management of lettings, lease events, disposals, refurbishments and compliance
- Oversee the management of external providers, ensuring the team are holding them to account through clear KPIs and structured reporting
- Lead the corporate landlord function across operational assets, ensuring risk, compliance and service delivery needs are met
- Drive commercial opportunities, income generation and financial sustainability
- Build capability across the team through strong performance management and visible leadership
- Strengthen governance, reporting and cross‑council collaboration
- Develop constructive relationships with Members, senior leaders, partners and stakeholders
- Promote a culture of continuous improvement, innovation and open information‑sharing
Initial Areas of Focus
- Quickly understanding the portfolio and getting to know the team
- Engaging directly with the Cabinet portfolio holder, senior officers and key stakeholders
- Taking confident ownership of the Asset Management Strategy and its communication
- Establishing strong relationships and shared understanding across the organisation
- Building trust early through clarity, consistency and visible leadership
What I’m Looking For
I welcome interest from professionals with a range of backgrounds and experiences. The successful candidate will need to demonstrate many of the following:
- Confidence and credibility when engaging with senior political and executive stakeholders
- Experience across both investment and operational property portfolios
- Strong knowledge of maintenance, FM and compliance‑led environments
- A track record of shaping services and leading improvement
- Ease working within complex public‑sector governance
- Clear commercial judgement and the ability to make informed decisions
- A leadership style that inspires teams and builds strong relationships
- A proactive, forward‑looking approach that delivers meaningful change
Looking Ahead
Rushmoor is committed to building a strategic, data‑driven and commercially focused property function. This role carries genuine influence, visibility and the opportunity to help shape how the service develops over the coming years. If this opportunity aligns with your skills, experience and ambitions, I’d welcome a conversation. As this is a retained search, all applications will come directly through Oyster and we will be conducting a thorough assessment for shortlisting. Shortlisting will close on Friday 3rd April 2026, though we reserve the right to close the advert ahead of this date if sufficient applications are received. Please get in touch as soon as possible to register your interest.
Corporate Property & Estates Service Manager in Southampton employer: Rushmoor Borough Council
Contact Detail:
Rushmoor Borough Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Corporate Property & Estates Service Manager in Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the property and estates sector. Attend industry events or webinars where you can meet potential colleagues or decision-makers at Rushmoor Borough Council. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by researching the council’s current projects and their Asset Management Strategy. Show them you’re not just interested in the role, but that you understand their vision and how you can contribute to it. We want to see you shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview or networking event, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate individuals who align with our values and goals. Let’s make this happen together!
We think you need these skills to ace Corporate Property & Estates Service Manager in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through. We want to see how excited you are about the opportunity to lead and transform property functions at Rushmoor Borough Council.
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in property management and leadership. We’re looking for someone who can provide strategic direction, so connect your past roles to the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and ensure your key achievements stand out. This will help us quickly see how you fit into the role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity with Rushmoor Borough Council.
How to prepare for a job interview at Rushmoor Borough Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you thoroughly understand Rushmoor Borough Council's Asset Management Strategy. Familiarise yourself with their current property portfolio and any recent developments. This will help you speak confidently about how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your leadership approach and how you've inspired teams in the past. Think of specific examples where you've driven change or improved service delivery, as this role requires someone who can lead a high-performing team.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Be ready to talk about your experience working with senior political and executive stakeholders. Highlight how you've built relationships and communicated effectively in previous roles, as this will be crucial for success in this position.
✨Demonstrate Strategic Thinking
Think about how you can contribute to the strategic direction of the council's property function. Prepare to discuss your understanding of commercial judgement and how you've made informed decisions in complex environments.