Director - Student Housing Asset Management

Macdonald & Company has been exclusively retained by one of the leading student housing developers, owners and operators to appoint a Director of Asset Management.

This is a highly visible role responsible for driving the performance and long-term value of a portfolio of student housing assets. The Director will lead asset-level strategy and business plan execution, partnering closely with operations, investments, finance and other internal teams to grow NOI, enhance property values and manage risk.

The Opportunity

The successful candidate will combine strong financial and analytical capabilities with a hands-on understanding of property operations. They will take ownership of complex business plans, communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders, and identify practical opportunities to improve performance across the portfolio.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of asset management strategies and property-level business plans across an assigned portfolio.
• Monitor operating and financial performance against budgets, underwriting and strategic objectives, identifying risks and recommending corrective action.
• Identify and implement NOI growth initiatives, revenue enhancements, expense efficiencies and other value-creation opportunities.
• Oversee annual budgeting, forecasting, capital planning and performance reporting in partnership with property operations and finance teams.
• Evaluate capital projects, renovations, repositioning opportunities and redevelopment initiatives, ensuring appropriate prioritization and execution.
• Review financial statements, investment accounting and lender or joint-venture reporting for accuracy and alignment with approved business plans.
• Prepare and present regular portfolio and investment performance updates to senior leadership, investors and capital partners.
• Conduct property visits to evaluate operational performance and provide strategic guidance relating to leasing, marketing, rent positioning, resident experience and vendor management.
• Analyze market conditions, competitive supply, rent trends and broader economic factors to inform asset strategy and positioning.
• Support acquisitions and dispositions through due diligence, operational analysis, preparation of materials and coordination with brokers, counsel and capital partners.
• Assist with refinancing and other debt or equity initiatives, including financial analysis and the preparation of presentation materials.
• Maintain effective relationships with joint-venture partners, investors, lenders and internal stakeholders.
• Mentor and develop junior members of the asset management team and help promote consistent processes and best practices.

Candidate Profile

• 7 years of progressive experience in real estate asset management, investments or portfolio management.
• Direct experience with residential real estate; student housing experience is strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to manage institutional-quality assets and execute complex, value-oriented business plans.
• Strong knowledge of property operations, budgeting, financial reporting, cash management and real estate accounting.
• Experience working with institutional investors, private equity or joint-venture partners is preferred.
• Exposure to refinancing, capital planning and investment due diligence is advantageous.
• Strong financial analysis, communication and presentation skills, with the ability to translate complex information into clear recommendations.
• A proactive, collaborative leadership style and the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Bachelor’s degree in finance, real estate, business or a related discipline, or equivalent relevant experience.

Why Consider This Opportunity?

• Join an established and well-regarded student housing platform with an integrated development, ownership and operating model.
• Take ownership of meaningful portfolio strategy and value-creation initiatives in a visible leadership position.
• Work cross-functionally with senior professionals across operations, investments, finance and capital markets.
• Help develop talent and strengthen asset management processes across a growing organization.