Head of Estates & Property

Job description

Role Summary: This is a senior, high-autonomy role for someone who wants the breadth and influence of managing a large, multi-sector UK portfolio. You will lead the groups freehold and leasehold interests, shaping property strategy, managing landlord and tenant matters, and overseeing commercial, legal and operational activity across every site. With 6,500+ acres across all parts of the UK, the work is varied, hands-on and commercially significant. You'll work closely with internal teams and external advisers, and you'll have the support needed to manage a national portfolio effectively. Regular site visits are part of the role, helping you build strong relationships with landlords, stakeholders and operational teams. Key Responsibilities: Lead the group's property portfolio across all operational and non-operational sites, covering freehold and leasehold interests. Manage the landlord and tenant relationships, including lease negotiations, renewals, rent reviews, variations, assignments and surrenders. Oversee property disputes including dilapidations, reinstatement, restoration, breach matters ad royalty issues, instructing external solicitors where required. Manage business rates across the portfolio, leasing with the Valuation Office and rating advisers and challenging assessments where appropriate. Negotiate and document property agreements including head of terms, leases, licenses, deeds of variation, working alongside our legal team. Oversee end-of-lease obligations including restoration and reinstatement, working closely with operational and technical teams. Maintain accurate portfolio records including title, lease terms, rent, key dates and obligations, and report to senior management on property risk, value and strategy. Travel to sites nationally to inspect, build relationships and progress matters on the ground. Essential Experience: We welcome candidates from a range of professional backgrounds including: MRICS chartered surveyors Estates, asset or commercial property managers Commercial property solicitors or chartered legal executives You will also bring: Strong experience in landlord & tenant, commercial property, and multi-site portfolio management. Confidence handling both transactional and contentious property matters. A commercial mindset, able to balance legal risk with business priorities. Comfort working with high autonomy and managing a broad, busy remit. Excellent communication skills, able to work directly with landlords, advisers and internal stakeholders. A full UK driving license and willingness to travel across the UK. Experience in waste, minerals, energy, land or infrastructure is a advantage but not essential. Why Join Valencia Waste Management: Join a forward-thinking organisation committed to sustainable waste solutions and environmental impact. At Valencia, you’ll be part of a collaborative team driving innovation, improving communities, and shaping a cleaner, more responsible future. We offer meaningful work, opportunities for growth, and the chance to make a tangible difference every day. Valencia Waste Management operates a substantial property portfolio of more than 6,500 acres, spanning a range of sectors and sites in all parts of the UK. We are looking for a qualified property lawyer to take ownership of the group's estates as our Head of Estates & Property.