Principal Surveyor - Commercial Property

Principal Surveyor - Commercial Property

Pay Rate: £34.11

Location: Hackney

A rare opportunity has arisen for a highly experienced Principal Surveyor to lead complex, high-value property projects within a dynamic and multifaceted commercial property portfolio.

This is a high-profile, senior-level role offering substantial impact and visibility. You’ll be leading strategic initiatives and overseeing critical property transactions, while managing a team of talented surveyors and professional support staff. Ideal for someone with a strong background in commercial asset management, this post offers the chance to influence the direction of major programmes and shape the future of property services.

• Team Leadership: Manage and develop a high-performing team including chartered surveyors, estates technicians, and support staff. Take responsibility for recruitment, training, and performance.

• Commercial Transactions: Oversee complex, high-value landlord and tenant matters, including rent reviews, lease renewals, lettings, disputes, and acquisitions/disposals of properties with capital values up to £25 million.

• Strategy & Advisory: Be the lead advisor on commercial portfolio strategies including income generation, cost reduction, and sustainability. Develop key policies relating to community sector lettings and energy performance.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with senior colleagues across finance, legal, housing, policy, regeneration and external consultants. Provide expert advice and reports to executives and governance boards.

• Income & Debt Management: Lead the income and debt function for a substantial portfolio generating £10m+ annually. Ensure effective arrears management, rent forecasting, and billing processes.

• Data & Systems Oversight: Procure and implement modern property management software. Lead on data governance, business continuity planning, and statutory compliance.

• Sustainability Focus: Drive delivery of sustainability objectives including energy compliance, MEES legislation, and Net Zero targets across the commercial estate.

You are an experienced MRICS-qualified Chartered Surveyor with extensive commercial asset management experience. You’re a confident leader with strong communication, analytical and project management skills. You have a successful track record of managing large portfolios, delivering results through teams, and navigating complex stakeholder environments.

• Degree in a relevant discipline and MRICS qualified (valuation or commercial property pathway)

• RICS Registered Valuer (or ability to become registered)

• Proven leadership of professional teams

• Strong expertise in complex landlord and tenant matters

• Experience managing income forecasts and property debt recovery

• Excellent negotiation, presentation, and interpersonal skills

• Knowledge of relevant property law, valuation techniques, and compliance standards

• Strong command of ICT and property management systems

• Experience working with voluntary and community sector organisations

• Familiarity with public sector procurement and asset management approaches