Area Manager – Student Accommodation (W1K...

Job Description

We are seeking an experienced Area Manager to provide operational oversight of our Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) portfolio across the South region. Reporting into the Central Support Office, you will ensure building standards are upheld, maintenance processes are followed, and compliance obligations are met. This is a hands-on leadership role requiring regular site visits, quality assurance checks, and close collaboration with our Facilities Management Coordinator (FMC) team based in Newcastle upon Tyne.

The ideal candidate will combine strong leadership and organisational skills with a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to delivering exceptional resident experiences.

• Act as the primary representative for the Central Support Office within your region, ensuring all properties meet operational and compliance standards.
• Conduct regular site inspections to verify building condition, safety compliance, and adherence to maintenance processes.
• Ensure statutory obligations (fire, gas, electrical, legionella, HMO) are consistently met across the portfolio.

• Perform maintenance quality checks and confirm that company processes and procedures are being followed.
• Monitor service delivery against SLAs and escalate issues promptly.
• Provide feedback and recommendations to improve operational efficiency and resident satisfaction.

• Work closely with the FMC team in Newcastle to coordinate planned and reactive maintenance activities.
• Act as the local escalation point for complex maintenance or compliance issues.
• Maintain strong relationships with contractors, suppliers, and on-site teams to ensure seamless service delivery.

• Support check-in/check-out processes during peak periods, ensuring rooms are ready and standards maintained.
• Respond to escalated resident queries with professionalism and empathy.

• Regular travel across the South region (within 200-mile radius of London) to visit sites, resolve issues, and maintain visibility.
• Prepare detailed operational reports using CAFM systems and dashboards, highlighting compliance, maintenance performance, and improvement opportunities.

• Proven experience in multi-site property or facilities management.
• Strong knowledge of compliance requirements (fire safety, HMO, health & safety).
• Excellent organisational and communication skills with a hands-on approach.
• Ability to influence and engage colleagues and contractors.
• Proficiency in using digital maintenance tracking tools.
• Full UK driving licence and flexibility to travel extensively within the region.

• NVQ Level 3 in Facilities Management or equivalent.
• Degree or 3 years of experience in a similar role
• IOSH Managing Safely or similar certification.
• Previous experience in PBSA, Build-to-Rent (BTR), or residential block management.