Working hours: 37 hours per week (hybrid – typically 1-2 days on-site each week)

Contract type: Permanent

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and commercially astute Senior Asset and Commercial Lead to shape the future of Colchester City Council’s property portfolio.

Reporting to the Director of Estates, you will lead a team and consultants on all aspects of strategic asset management, commercial investment, and portfolio optimisation. With responsibility for a diverse estate valued at approximately £260m, this is a pivotal leadership role that will drive income generation, unlock capital value, and support the Council’s long-term financial sustainability.

You will work closely with Members, senior leadership, and partners to deliver innovative solutions that maximise the value of our estate for residents and the wider community.

Key Responsibilities

As Senior Asset and Commercial Lead, you will:

Lead the strategic asset management agenda, delivering a comprehensive land and property strategy that optimises performance across all asset classes.
Develop and implement a forward-looking investment strategy to maximise income, capital receipts, and long-term value.
Actively manage the council’s property portfolio, identifying opportunities for disposals, acquisitions, and repositioning to enhance value.

Continue to develop and progress a disposals program of the land and commercial portfolio to achieved required capital receipts

Provide expert advice to Members and senior leaders, ensuring robust governance, effective decision-making, and strong commercial outcomes.
Build and lead strategic partnerships, including collaboration with neighbouring authorities and the health sector to deliver efficiencies and improved services.
Lead and develop a high-performing team, fostering innovation, continuous improvement, and excellent service delivery.
Oversee third-party suppliers and contracts, ensuring high-quality delivery and value for money.
Maximise the financial and operational performance of the estate, aligning property use with corporate priorities.
Monitor and report on investment and portfolio performance, taking corrective action where required to meet targets.

About You

We are looking for a strategic leader with strong commercial acumen and a proven track record in property asset management.

Essential:

Degree-level qualification (or equivalent experience) in a relevant field
Hold a recognised professional qualification (e.g. RICS, RIBA, CIOB)
Significant senior-level experience in commercial real estate or asset management
Expertise in portfolio optimisation and income generation
Strong stakeholder management and influencing skills
Ability to operate effectively in a complex and politically sensitive environment

You will also bring:

Strategic thinking and the ability to translate vision into delivery
Strong financial and analytical capability
Experience in managing partnerships, third-party contracts, and complex programmes
A collaborative and resilient leadership style

Why Join Us?

This is a unique opportunity to play a key leadership role in shaping the future of Colchester’s estate, driving innovation, delivering commercial value, and supporting high-quality services for residents.

For more information regarding this role, please contact Rob Williams at Rob.Williams@colchester.gov.uk

For a copy of the job description, please click here.

Colchester City Council has a wide range of services and facilities that can involve dealing with children or vulnerable adults. We treat our obligations for the safety of children and vulnerable adults seriously and expect our staff to be committed to the principles of our published policies and to adhere to the procedures contained within them.