We are looking for a strategic and operational Property Portfolio Manager to oversee a portfolio of NSFAS-accredited student accommodation. This is a high-level role that goes beyond day-to-day management; it requires a candidate capable of seeing the bigger picture beyond simply on the ground day-to-day operations. This may include conceptualising and implementing strategies for the assets to maximize potential extract increased cash flow returns and to manage complex risk. The role will include leading a team to get the best possible performance from the asset group as a whole and ensure strict compliance with NSFAS Standards. Strategic Planning & Asset Management Strategic Direction: Formalise a strategic plan for the portfolio and make recommendations to the Portfolio Executive regarding value-maximization, streamlining, and risk balancing. You will actively look for ways to optimize the “yield per bed” and student value proposition. Property Improvement: Drive the improvement of the property (upgrades, renovations, development) to achieve its maximum potential. This includes managing the delicate balance of upgrading facilities without disrupting the academic year. Market Intelligence: Utilise market research and market intelligence to deliver on the marketing strategy. This includes identifying target markets (specific faculties or universities), compiling the ideal tenant mix (bursary vs. private students), and overseeing tenant procurement strategies. CapEx Control: Control capital expenditure for refurbishments and improvements. You will be responsible for ensuring CapEx projectssuch as creating study labs or upgrading Wi-Fi infrastructuredeliver a return on investment. Extremely strong grasp of Excel and financial models: You will be required to be the primary custodian of the financial model for the student portfolio as a whole. This will include modelling scenarios and debt, and translating strategic plans into clear financial figures and valuations. Financial & Risk Management Performance Analysis: Conduct a monthly performance analysis of the property in terms of performance against budgets and relevant industry benchmarks (e.g., cost-per-bed ratios). Risk Analysis: Conduct an annual risk and exposure analysis and review of current and potential risks, specifically focusing on NSFAS accreditation risks, university payment cycles, and student safety/security protocols. Account Management : Ensure the effective management of tenant accounts as it relates to the interaction with relevant stakeholders (NSFAS, University Financial Aid Offices, Bursars) and ensure the necessary resolution of relevant issues regarding bulk payments and individual student arrears. Operations & Administration Operational Alignment: Align, interpret, and implement the actual output of property and lease administration and operational functions with the output expected by business operations. You must bridge the gap between “on-the-ground” building managers and “head office” strategy. Head-Lease Administration: Ensure that property and lease administration is well administered. This involves overseeing the high-volume intake season (Jan/Feb) to ensure all lease agreements are POPIA compliant and legally sound under the Rental Housing Act. Stakeholder Relationships: Build and maintain relationships with tenants (students) and service providers. You will act as the escalation point for Student Representative Councils (SRCs) and University Housing departments. Leadership & Staff Management Team Leadership: Assess staff functions within the respective functional areas (Building Managers, Student Liaison Officers, Maintenance teams). Performance Management: Conduct regular performance reviews and effectively manage all reporting staff to ensure a high-performance culture that prioritizes student welfare and asset protection. Mimimum requirements: Qualification: Tertiary qualification in Property Studies, Real Estate, Quantity Surveying, or Finance. Experience: Minimum 5 years in Property Management with exposure to asset management. Experience in the Student Accommodation (PBSA) sector is non-negotiable. Technical & Soft Skills
