Portfolio Manager

Are you ready to shape the future of purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) and residential investment at one of the UK’s leading property groups?

Watkin Jones Group is seeking a dynamic, commercially astute Investment Portfolio Manager to take ownership of our on-balance sheet investments and drive value across a diverse, high-profile portfolio.

About the Role

This pivotal new position will oversee a portfolio comprising approximately 2,000 beds under sale and leaseback arrangements, as well as minority interests in two Joint Ventures (totalling a further 1,665 PBSA beds). You’ll play a key role in maximising long-term value, managing day to day operations, and supporting the Group Investment Director on new growth opportunities.

Key Focus Areas:

Strategic Management: Shape and execute strategies to maximise value and deliver successful exits across the Group’s investment interests.


Operational Excellence: Lead the day-to-day management of our portfolio, collaborating with internal teams and external partners to drive performance and resolve operational challenges.


Growth & Innovation: Identify and support new investment and asset management opportunities, contributing to the Group’s ambitious growth agenda.

What You’ll Do:

In this role, you will manage Watkin Jones’ interests in joint ventures, working proactively to enhance asset value while carefully managing risk. You’ll oversee project delivery and mobilisation, collaborating closely with Project Services, Delivery, and Fresh teams to ensure seamless execution and operational excellence. Your responsibilities will also include working with the Homes team on the “for sale” homes strategy and providing oversight of the landbank, ensuring a joined-up approach across the business. Implementing robust reporting on joint venture positions will be key, as you work with Finance to maintain transparency and accuracy.

Additionally, you’ll engage with internal stakeholders and external debt and equity partners, representing Watkin Jones Group at industry events and forums to build strong relationships and promote the Group’s interests.

What We’re Looking For:

We’re seeking someone with proven experience in real estate asset management, ideally within UK purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA). You’ll bring strong commercial acumen and a track record of delivering value across complex portfolios.

Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills are essential, as is the ability to think strategically while adopting a hands-on, collaborative approach to your work.

Why Choose Watkin Jones Group?

At Watkin Jones, we believe in investing in our people. Here’s what we can offer you:

Work-Life Balance: 25 days of annual leave (increasing with tenure), agile working arrangements, and discounted gym memberships.


Wellbeing: Access to ‘Your Wellbeing’ programme & OpenUp – a confidential wellbeing platform.


Rewards: Discretionary annual bonus, health cash plan, life insurance, and more.


Benefits: Exclusive shopping discounts, and a contributory pension scheme.

This is an opportunity to take on a high-impact role within a forward-thinking company. In return, we offer a competitive salary, excellent benefits, and the chance to work on major projects that shape the built environment.

Watkin Jones Group is the UK’s leading developer, builder, and manager of residential-for-rent homes, with a rich history dating back to 1791. With 54,000+ homes developed and in-build across over 254 schemes, we have a proven track record of success. Our operating arm, Fresh, manages over 18,500 units across 58 schemes, representing approximately £1.7bn of assets under management.

Joining us means becoming part of a company that’s not only deeply rooted in history but also firmly focused on the future. We’re committed to creating high-quality rental homes, fostering vibrant communities, and driving sustainable development