General Manager

Provide strong leadership to drive overall business strategy, optimize operations, ensure positive financial performance, drive portfolio expansion and spearhead sustainable growth. This role is ideal for a results-oriented leader with deep expertise in real estate/property services who can scale the business regionally while maintaining operational excellence, compliance, and tenant satisfaction in a competitive East African market. Key Responsibilities: - Develop and execute a comprehensive 5-year strategic plan for portfolio growth, revenue diversification and market expansion. - Identify and evaluate new business opportunities, including property acquisitions, developments and joint ventures, and market expansion. - Conduct market research, competitor analysis, and feasibility studies to inform pricing, positioning, and investment decisions. - Drive revenue growth through leasing, sales, and diversified services, e.g., facilities management, property development projects, etc. - Build and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders, including investors, government agencies, financial institutions, developers, and industry partners. - Oversee day-to-day operations of all properties, ensuring high standards of maintenance, safety, and compliance with Ugandan and regional regulations. - Implement efficient property management systems, processes, and controls, e.g., rent collection, tenant onboarding/relations, lease administration, inspections, and dispute resolution. - Manage facilities and maintenance teams to minimize downtime, control costs and uphold property value. - Ensure robust risk management including insurance, legal compliance, health & safety and environmental standards. - Optimize supply chain and vendor relationships for cost-effective operations. - Prepare and manage annual budgets, forecasts, and financial reports. Monitor KPIs such as occupancy rates, rental yields, NOI (Net Operating Income), and ROI. - Drive cost optimization and profitability while ensuring accurate financial controls and reporting. - Work with finance teams on cash flow management, debt servicing, and funding for expansion projects. - Present regular performance updates to the Managing Director/Board. - Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team, e.g., property officers, maintenance, finance, admin & Projects, and business development staff. - Foster a performance-driven culture with clear goals, accountability, and professional development. - Recruit and retain top talent suited to the East African real estate market. - Implement HR policies, training, and succession planning. - Champion regional expansion initiatives including market entry strategies for East Africa. - Oversee project management for new developments or refurbishments from planning to completion. - Leverage technology and innovation, e.g., property management software, digital tenant platforms to improve efficiency and competitiveness. - Maintain strong relationships with tenants, government agencies, investors, and partners. - Conduct regular risk assessments to identify potential operational, financial, and compliance risks related to property management. - Develop and implement strategies to mitigate risks, including emergency response plans for property-related issues. - Monitor insurance coverage for all properties, ensuring it is up to date and sufficient to cover potential liabilities. - Identify and resolve tenant disputes or legal risks, escalating significant concerns to senior management when necessary. - Stay updated on market trends, regulations, and other factors that could impact property performance and recommend proactive adjustments.

Bachelor’s degree in real estate, Business Administration, Property Management, Civil Engineering, or related field. Master's degree or professional certifications like those from ISMM, RICS, or equivalent shall be an added advantage. At least 8+ years of progressive experience in real estate management, property operations, or a similar role. Proven experience in driving growth, operational efficiency, and profitability in the property sector. Strong experience managing commercial portfolios. Demonstrated success in regional expansion, project development and stakeholder management in Uganda or similar markets. Strategic thinker with strong business acumen and ability to translate vision into actionable plans. Leadership presence: inspirational team leader with excellent people management skills. Deep knowledge of East African real estate markets, landlord-tenant laws, valuation and regulatory environments. Financial literacy in budgeting, P&L management, investment analysis. Excellent negotiation, communication and relationship-building skills. Problem-solving mindset with resilience in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. Proficiency in property management tools/software and MS Office. Willingness to travel regionally. Results-driven with a strong growth mindset. High integrity, ethical standards and cultural adaptability. Entrepreneurial spirit suited to a hands-on leadership role in a growing company.