Asset Manager

Development Manager (Assets) - Be First LtdSalary: Up to £55,000
Benefits: 10% employer pension contribution, 30 days annual leave
Location: Barking & Dagenham, London
Hays - Exclusively retained
Be First is a dynamic and innovative urban regeneration company, wholly owned by the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham. With a mission to accelerate growth and deliver inclusive regeneration, Be First is leading one of the most ambitious development programmes in the UK. The organisation is committed to transforming Barking and Dagenham into a place of opportunity, sustainability, and prosperity for all residents.Be First manages a diverse and growing portfolio of commercial assets, including industrial, retail, office, and land holdings. These assets play a critical role in supporting the borough's regeneration strategy, generating income, and enabling long-term social and economic impact.
Hays has exclusively partnered with Be First to recruit a Development Manager (Assets) to join their Asset Management team. This is a strategic role focused on active portfolio management, income generation, and supporting the delivery of new development projects.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage and enhance Be First's commercial property portfolio to support regeneration goals
• Oversee third-party property managers and external consultants across leasing, compliance, and maintenance
• Lead on lease negotiations, tenant relations, and asset performance
• Support the transfer of additional council-owned assets into Be First's management
• Deliver development appraisals and contribute to new project viability assessments
• Report to senior stakeholders including the Be First Board and LBBD Investment Committee
• Contribute to the Strategic Asset Management Plan and long-term asset strategy
• Identify and drive opportunities for income growth and portfolio optimisation

What You'll Bring:

Essential:

• Proven experience in commercial property asset management
• Strong negotiation and communication skills
• Proficiency in Excel for financial modelling and data analysis
• Knowledge of property law, leasing, valuation, and investment appraisal
• Ability to manage competing priorities and deliver results in a fast-paced environment

Desirable:

• MRICS or equivalent professional qualification
• Experience with property management systems and valuation software
• Background in local authority or consultancy portfolio management
• Understanding of planning processes, RIBA stages, and construction delivery

Why Join Be First?

• Be part of a purpose-driven organisation making a real impact in London
• Work with a collaborative, multidisciplinary team committed to innovation and excellence
• Enjoy generous benefits including a 10% pension contribution and 30 days annual leave
• Play a key role in shaping the future of Barking and Dagenham through strategic asset management

Apply by the 26th of November, and get in touch with Molly Spencer at Hays for more information!

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