Estate & Capital Development Manager (4724002)

The South Downs National Park Authority are seeking an Estate & Capital Development Manager to join our Corporate Services team based in Midhurst, West Sussex.

The South Downs National Park Authority (SDNPA) is the public body responsible for conserving and enhancing the natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural heritage of the South Downs. Covering over 1,600 km² of iconic landscapes, the Park stretches from Winchester to Eastbourne and includes vibrant communities, rich biodiversity, and historic landmarks.

We manage a diverse estate, acting as both landlord and occupier across a wide range of rural land and property assets. Our portfolio includes the iconic Seven Sisters Country Park, the South Downs Centre in Midhurst, and a variety of business spaces, storage facilities, visitor attractions, and residential cottages.

We are now embarking on an exciting capital programme to deliver a series of building and estate-related projects across the park. To lead this work, we are now seeking a new Estate & Capital Development Manager to join our Corporate Services team. Based at the South Downs Centre, you will work across the entire national park, splitting your time between the office, site and home.

The Role 

The Estate & Capital Development Manager is a pivotal role that will see you responsible developing, overseeing and driving forward the successful delivery of capital projects across our estate. You will collaborate with internal teams, contractors and stakeholders to ensure the projects are delivered on time, on budget, and to a high standard where best value is achieved.

Ensuring the SDNPA’s estate and assets are fit for purpose is essential. Your role will lead the development of a clear and effective Asset Strategy that delivers value across the estate, fleet, and equipment - balancing affordability, sustainability, and long-term cost efficiency.

As an organisation, we are committed to achieving Net Zero by 2030. Your work will play a key role in supporting this ambition, requiring close collaboration with colleagues to drive progress toward this critical objective.

Key Responsibilities –

• Plan, specify and project manage a programme of estate and building related capital projects.
• Maintain an overview of projects, manage budgets and monitor progress.
• Appoint and manage external teams and contractors throughout the delivery process.
• Develop and execute a clear and effective Asset Strategy.
• Develop and plan for a pipeline of future capital projects for delivery.
• Manage the execution of approved capital spend on both SDNPA and non-owned assets, adhering to all existing policies and procedures.
• Develop frameworks of high quality and trusted suppliers to enable prompt procurement.
• Ensure SDNPA’s estate and assets are fit for purpose and that stock condition surveys of all owned assets are undertaken.
• Work closely with internal teams and stakeholders to ensure that key objectives and strategies are met.
• Management of a small Facilities Delivery team who are responsible for the day-to-day operation of our sites.

What You’ll Need

• Hold a relevant degree such as, Construction Project Management or Building Surveying.
• Desirably, hold a professional membership such as, RICS / CIOB / APM.
• Currently working in a similar role and environment as a Project Manager or Building Surveyor.
• Have a strong track record of experience in planning and delivering estate and construction related capital projects and programmes.
• Proficient knowledge of procuring building contracts, design, and construction processes.
• A demonstrable understanding of asset lifecycle planning and stock condition surveys.
• Knowledge of carbon reduction strategies and sustainability principles.
• Knowledge and/or experience of working in the Public Sector would be advantageous.
• Proven skills in budget management, leading project teams and stakeholder engagement.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence, negotiate and collaborate.

What’s Included

• Starting salary - £52,903 per annum
• 27 days annual leave increasing to 30, plus bank holidays
• 19.7% Employer Pension Contribution
• Reimbursement of Professional Fees (one membership)
• Health care reimbursement plan, counselling and wellbeing discounts
• Access to Heat Scheme interest free loans
• Electric Vehicle lease scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Use of pool cars
• Family Friendly policies and flexible / hybrid working
• Inclusive working environment

What you need to do now

Hays Property and Surveying are supporting SDNPA with the recruitment of this role on a retained and exclusive basis.

For further information, or to have a confidential discussion, please contact our Southampton based Property and Surveying specialist Jamie Poll on 07800755744.

Contact information

South Downs National Park Authority

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