What are the responsibilities and job description for the New Development Lease Up Manager - Student Housing position at University Partners?
About University Partners
University Partners is a vertically integrated student housing investment, development, and management firm with a nationwide portfolio. We specialize in creating high-performing student communities through thoughtful design, operational excellence, and strong local leadership. As we continue to grow, we’re looking for leaders who thrive in fast-paced environments and want to build something from the ground up.
Position Overview
The New Development Community Manager is responsible for leading all onsite operations for a newly developed student housing community from pre-opening through stabilization. This role plays a critical part in driving lease-up performance, building the onsite team, and establishing operational standards that support long-term success.
This position requires a hands-on, adaptable leader who can manage competing priorities, partner cross-functionally, and deliver results during a high-growth phase.
Qualifications
- 3 years of experience as a Community Manager in student housing environment
- Prior lease-up experience is required
- Proven ability to lead teams in fast-paced, seasonal leasing environments
- Strong understanding of student leasing cycles, operational execution, and financial performance
- Experience with property management systems such as Entrata or similar
- Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills
- Ability to adapt quickly and lead through change
Key Responsibilities
Lease-Up & Student Housing Operations
- Lead pre-opening and lease-up efforts, including readiness planning, staffing, and operational setup
- Execute leasing strategies to meet occupancy, pre-leasing, and revenue goals aligned with the academic calendar
- Monitor leasing performance, traffic, conversion, and pricing trends; adjust strategy in real time
- Partner with marketing teams on outreach, events, and campus engagement initiatives
Team Leadership & Staffing
- Recruit, hire, train, and manage onsite teams including Leasing Consultants and Maintenance staff
- Establish performance expectations, schedules, and accountability across the team
- Coach team members on student-focused leasing, customer service, and resident engagement
Financial & Administrative Oversight
- Manage operating budgets, expenses, and revenue in alignment with ownership expectations
- Review financial reports, rent rolls, and variance explanations; recommend corrective actions
- Ensure accurate leasing data, resident files, and reporting within property management systems
Resident Experience & Risk Management
- Oversee resident relations, service standards, and issue resolution in a student environment
- Ensure compliance with Fair Housing, student housing regulations, and company policies
- Maintain a safe, well-managed community during peak leasing and move-in periods
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Partner with Development, Construction, Asset Management, and Regional leadership during transition from build to operations
- Coordinate vendors, service providers, and campus-facing partners
- Serve as the primary onsite representative for internal stakeholders and ownership
Why Join University Partners
- Opportunity to lead a new community during a critical phase of growth
- High visibility and partnership with senior leadership
- Ability to build teams, culture, and processes from the ground up
- Competitive compensation and benefits package
- Relocation or housing accommodation support may be considered, depending on the project.
If you’re energized by lease-ups, student housing, and building something new, we’d love to hear from you. Apply today to be part of a growing team shaping the future of student living.