Executive Search Real Estate Netherlands: Head of Asset Management Benelux
Job description
Our client
Our client is an internationally recognized real estate investment company that specializes in commercial real estate.
Role Objectives
The Head of Asset Management, will be part of the Benelux management team and is responsible for leading the Asset Management function, including team leadership, execution of asset business plans, and performance management of client assets in the region. This role involves overseeing the annual business planning process, closely collaborating with key internal stakeholders, and delivering expert recommendations on asset management initiatives, including leasing, capital expenditures, maintenance, and development.
The Head of Asset Management, will work closely with the transaction team on asset acquisitions and will be actively involved in the onboarding of new assets and the asset disposal process. This role, in coordination with the Head of Real Estate Operations, Europe, is responsible for setting standards and policies for engaging property management and brokers, as well as fostering key service provider and tenant relationships. The Head of Asset Management will also promote operational excellence and sustainability initiatives across the portfolio and represent the organization both internally and externally to investors and partners, advocating best practices and building real estate operating expertise in the Benelux region.
Position Responsibilities
Asset Management Performance
- Oversee the operational performance (financial and non-financial) of the existing and expanding real estate portfolio in the Benelux.
- Manage relationships with external asset management partners.
- Achieve annual net operating income targets for the assets.
- Collaborate with the Head of Transactions Benelux, to ensure clear and regular communication within the asset management team.
- Work with the Fund Management Team to develop, execute, and review quarterly/monthly performance and business plans for each asset, covering leasing, revenues, operating, and capital expenses.
- Define and execute disposal strategies with the Fund Management team to optimize return timing.
- Drive leasing strategies, income growth, and value creation initiatives across properties.
- Represent the interests of funds and owners to key partners and tenants.
- Collaborate closely with the Finance and Fund Management teams on reporting and control matters for Benelux clients and portfolios.
- Support special projects, such as new business or fund initiatives.
- Coordinate with the ESG team to implement corporate responsibility and sustainability policies, including preparing the annual GRESB survey.
Resource Management
- Coordinate hiring and resource allocation for the Benelux Asset Management and Project Management team according to the business plan.
- Address key asset management challenges proactively and allocate resources as needed.
- Make recommendations on staffing and property management strategies.
Best Practices, Operational Excellence & Thought Leadership
- Drive high-quality operational standards and best practices in real estate asset management.
- Establish and enforce policies for purchasing and expense management, including property maintenance, energy usage, and tax strategies.
- Benchmark operational performance against market standards and business plans.
- Represent the organization with key intermediaries, investors, competitors, and partners as a thought leader in the industry.
- Uphold the highest ethical standards in all dealings.
- Champion sustainable asset management practices.
- Lead the implementation of new asset management initiatives, including technology adoption.
Fund Management
- Assist in the initiation and annual preparation of Investment Plans and bi-annual Health Checks for all products under management.
- Review and update onboarding plans for acquisitions, including 100-day action plans.
- Participate in quarterly valuation meetings with third-party valuers alongside the Fund Management team.
- Support the real estate insurance program in coordination with Fund Management, including liaising with brokers, coordinating claims, and reviewing policy terms.
- Provide board updates on Benelux real estate activities.
Asset Management Operations
- Regularly meet with team members and internal stakeholders to address challenges and concerns and promote collaborative problem-solving.
- Attend asset management conferences as needed, focusing on strategy, team collaboration, and best practices across the European platform.
Property Management
- Collaborate with the Head of Real Estate Operations, Europe, to review external property managers and appoint suitable managers for new mandates and funds.
Real Estate Technology Platforms
- Initiate and lead technology projects related to real estate, such as implementing platforms like Yardi and Deepki.
