Interim Estates Manager

Interim Estates Manager Bedford (Hybrid / site visits across borough) £500 per day (Umbrella) Initial 3-month contract (with strong potential to extend) Bedford Borough Council is seeking an experienced Interim Estates Manager to lead its Estates Management and Valuation function during a key period of delivery and transformation. This is a senior, hands-on leadership role overseeing a diverse and high-value property portfolio while driving income generation, service performance, and long-term asset strategy.   The Role Reporting into the Head of Property Services, you will lead the Estates Management Team to deliver a proactive, high-quality and commercially focused estates service across the Council's operational and non-operational portfolio. You'll take ownership of strategy, performance, and delivery across: ·Commercial, agricultural, and investment portfolios ·Leasehold management, rent reviews, and lease renewals ·Asset valuations (IFRS & RICS compliant) ·Service charge management and reconciliation ·Estate optimisation, income generation, and disposals strategy ·External consultants and specialist valuation work You will also act as a key advisor on complex estates matters, ensuring robust governance, compliance, and financial control across the service.   Key Responsibilities ·Lead and manage the Estates Management and Valuation service ·Maximise income from a £80m+ property investment portfolio ·Oversee circa 800 lease agreements and 1,500 acres of land assets ·Deliver annual asset valuations (~£500m portfolio) in line with RICS/IFRS standards ·Manage service charge budgets (£400k) and ensure full cost recovery ·Oversee commercial and county farms budgets (£4.6m combined portfolio responsibility) ·Drive performance of internal teams and external consultants ·Support Corporate Asset Strategy and wider Council transformation priorities   Leadership & Corporate Impact As part of the wider leadership group within Bedford Borough Council, you will: ·Support delivery of the Corporate Plan and service priorities ·Lead on performance management, risk, and financial governance   What We're Looking For ·MRICS qualified (General Practice) and Registered Valuer (or eligible) ·Minimum 3 years' background within a social housing organisation ·Proven experience in commercial estates management and valuation ·Confident handling of rent reviews, lease advisory, and asset strategy ·Strong leadership experience managing technical property teams ·Full UK driving licence and ability to travel across the borough   Interested? If you'd like to find out more, please apply with your updated CV