Student Portfolio Asset Manager – Gauteng – Hybrid at Datafin Recruitment

ENVIRONMENT:

• A property management and development company is seeking an experienced Student Portfolio Asset Manager. The successful candidate will oversee multiple student accommodation properties, driving occupancy, revenue, operational performance and student satisfaction while strengthening university partnerships.
• The role requires a strong understanding of student housing, accreditation requirements and the operation of purpose-built student accommodation.

DUTIES:

Portfolio & Asset Performance

• Develop and implement strategies to maximise occupancy and revenue across the portfolio.
• Monitor and evaluate asset performance against established operational and financial KPIs.
• Identify opportunities to improve profitability, efficiency and the student experience.
• Drive long-term asset enhancement and value preservation initiatives.

Student Accommodation Operations

• Oversee the performance of residence management teams across the portfolio.
• Ensure high standards of student support, customer service and community engagement.
• Monitor occupancy trends, retention rates, leasing performance and resident satisfaction.
• Ensure student residences provide a safe, welcoming and conducive living environment.

University & Stakeholder Engagement

• Build and maintain relationships with universities, higher education institutions, NSFAS representatives and other strategic partners.
• Participate in accreditation processes and maintain compliance with relevant standards.
• Support partnerships that drive student placement and occupancy growth.

Compliance & Governance

• Ensure compliance with all student accommodation accreditation requirements.
• Monitor adherence to health and safety standards and operational policies.
• Manage risk across the portfolio and implement corrective actions where necessary.
• Ensure properties maintain all required certifications and statutory compliance.

Capital Planning & Improvements

• Develop and oversee annual maintenance and refurbishment plans.
• Manage improvement projects aimed at enhancing the student experience and asset performance.
• Monitor capital expenditure projects and budgets.
• Ensure facilities remain attractive, functional and competitive within the student accommodation market.

Financial Management

• Prepare and manage annual budgets and forecasts.
• Analyse monthly portfolio performance and recommend corrective actions where required.
• Monitor revenue, collections, operating costs and investment returns.
• Prepare reports and presentations for executive management.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Property Studies, Business Management, Real Estate or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in student accommodation.
• Strong budgeting, financial analysis and reporting capabilities.
• Experience working with universities and accreditation bodies; experience with UJ, Wits and NSFAS would be advantageous.

ATTRIBUTES:

• Strategic mindset with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Professional approach.
• Computer literate with proficiency in Microsoft Office.
• Own reliable transportation.
• Proficient in English