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- Tasks: Lead the management and growth of diverse property portfolios for two councils.
- Company: Dynamic councils focused on innovation and sustainability.
- Benefits: Flexible working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Shape the future of local communities while driving sustainable change.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in property management and strategic planning.
- Other info: Join a forward-thinking team committed to climate action and community impact.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Reporting to the Assistant Director of Property, Place and Economy, the Head of Property will be responsible for the effective management and growth of the Estate portfolio, including landlord and tenant, Facilities Management, investment and acquisition functions and project work for South Hams and West Devon Councils. The role is also the Council’s Corporate Property Officer with associated responsibilities.
Key Responsibilities
- Providing strategic advice and guidance to the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) and Elected Members.
- Leading on the development and implementation of strategic plans and being accountable for the development of the strategic estate for both councils.
- Ensuring that Climate Change mitigation and decarbonisation is central to all policies and actions.
- Having a lead role in ensuring the sustainability of the Councils through new income streams.
- Leading on the identification, development and negotiation of business opportunities to secure additional income and/or improvement of service delivery.
- Evaluating and benchmarking alternative methods of delivery to ensure the best return on investments and performance.
Background
The portfolio is varied in nature, including office, retail, commercial, housing and municipal buildings as well as coastal defences, a harbour, public open spaces, renewables and land for tree planting. It offers a unique and rewarding challenge to the right person, with a proven track record as a senior professional and head of service, team manager, who is comfortable working closely with elected councillors and the Senior Leadership Team.
The post holder will be required to provide advice and guidance on commercial investments, estate management and the wider estate strategy as necessary to the Assistant Director and will therefore require sound knowledge and experience in these areas. Decarbonisation of the estate is a Council priority and will form part of the role. Reporting to the Head of Property will be the Estates and Facilities Management teams, who will work as a collective to support the Housing, Climate Change and Building Maintenance teams and candidates should possess the interpersonal skills to make sure these relationships are forged and maintained to ensure corporate success.
Key Elements of the Role
West Devon Borough and South Hams District Councils are shared authorities with an exciting, innovative and forward-looking delivery model. We are offering this opportunity to a customer focused individual who welcomes change and can drive forward and shape new ways of service delivery and income generation. In return, we can offer flexible working and other staff benefits in an environment where innovation, challenge and efficiency are key aspects of the way we work.
Contact
If you are interested in having a confidential conversation about the role, please contact Brian Gallagher at Brian.Gallagher@penna.com or 07716 098175.
Application
If you are interested in applying for this position, please apply through our recruitment specialists at Penna. Closing date: Sunday 18 January 2026.
Assessment
Assessments are likely to be held: week commencing 2 February 2026.
Head of Property in Tavistock employer: WEST DEVON BOROUGH COUNCIL
Contact Detail:
WEST DEVON BOROUGH COUNCIL Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Property in Tavistock
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the property sector and let them know you're on the hunt for a new role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities that aren't advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the councils' current projects and challenges. Show us you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your knowledge about their strategic plans and how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the responsibilities of the Head of Property role. We want to hear how you can lead the charge on sustainability and income generation.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Property in Tavistock
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in property management and strategic planning. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Head of Property, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As this role involves leading teams and working closely with senior leadership, it’s crucial to demonstrate your leadership experience. Share examples of how you've successfully managed teams or projects in the past, and how you’ve driven change in your previous roles.
Highlight Your Knowledge of Sustainability: Given the focus on climate change and decarbonisation, make sure to emphasise any experience you have in these areas. We’re looking for someone who can integrate sustainability into property management, so share your insights and initiatives that support this goal.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates regarding your application status!
How to prepare for a job interview at WEST DEVON BOROUGH COUNCIL
✨Know Your Portfolio
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the estate portfolio you'll be managing. Familiarise yourself with the types of properties involved, from commercial to residential, and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with these areas.
✨Showcase Strategic Thinking
Prepare to demonstrate your ability to develop and implement strategic plans. Think about past experiences where you've successfully led projects or initiatives, especially those that involved sustainability or income generation.
✨Understand Climate Change Initiatives
Since decarbonisation is a priority for the councils, brush up on current climate change policies and how they can be integrated into property management. Be ready to share ideas on how you would approach this in your role.
✨Build Relationships
Highlight your interpersonal skills and provide examples of how you've effectively collaborated with senior leadership teams and elected officials. This role requires strong relationships, so be prepared to discuss how you foster teamwork and communication.