Senior Manager – Direct Property Investments

(Executive-Level | Property Portfolio Management | Investment Strategy)

A leading institutional investment organisation, managing one of the largest and most diverse asset portfolios on the African continent, is seeking an accomplished property investment professional to lead its Direct Investments (Properties) function. The institution is recognised for its sophisticated investment governance, long-term client mandates and its commitment to responsible asset management.

This opportunity requires a strategic and commercially astute leader with deep experience in property investment, asset management and portfolio optimisation.

Purpose of the Role

To provide executive oversight of a large, complex property investment portfolio – including direct property assets and related investment vehicles. The role combines strategic portfolio leadership, value creation through acquisitions, disposals and development, and accountability for performance reporting to governance structures.

Minimum Requirements (Strictly Applied)

• Honours Degree in Finance, Investment Management, Real Estate, or equivalent (NQF
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• FAIS RE5, or willingness to obtain within 6 months

• Minimum 10 years’ experience in the Property Investment sector

• At least 5 years must be at Senior Management level with direct leadership responsibility

• Proven exposure to Property Asset Management, Property Law, Development, Public Sector Real Estate, Acquisitions & Disposals, and property performance measurement

• Postgraduate studies such as MSc, MCom, MBA in Real Estate are advantageous

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a national property portfolio comprising direct assets and investment vehicles

• Drive portfolio performance in line with mandate requirements and market expectations

• Identify and execute growth opportunities through acquisitions, developments and strategic disposals

• Champion value creation initiatives across the portfolio

• Manage portfolio risk to ensure sustainability and stable cash flows

• Introduce and refine internal processes to enhance operational efficiency

• Deliver accurate, timely reports to the Board and relevant committees

• Oversee development of investment strategies at asset and portfolio level

• Ensure implementation of ESG/sustainability initiatives to optimise building performance

• Provide effective oversight of the Property Management function

• Lead, mentor and manage the Asset Management and Development teams

• Maintain strict governance of property budgets and financial performance

• Manage, monitor and evaluate staff performance in line with KPIs

Competencies & Skills

• Strong leadership and organisational intelligence

• Advanced communication and negotiation skills

• Strategic thinker with high analytical capability

• Commercially driven with strong budgeting discipline

• Resilient, composed and able to operate under pressure

• Problem-solving mindset with a customer-focused approach

• Proven ability to influence stakeholders at all levels

Why This Role Appeals to Senior Professionals

This opportunity offers exposure to one of the continent’s most significant property investment portfolios and the chance to lead value creation  is suited to a seasoned property executive who thrives in a high-governance, high-impact environment.