Head of Retail

Confidential; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading real estate management firm is seeking a Head of Retail Property Management to oversee its retail property portfolio. The role involves strategic business planning, team leadership, and ensuring tenant satisfaction while adhering to regulations. Ideal candidates will have over 10 years of property management experience, strong financial acumen, and a proven track record in the retail sector.

Qualifications

• 10+ years in property management with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven track record in driving asset value and tenant satisfaction.
• Strong understanding of retail leasing and operations.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic business plans for the retail property management division.
• Lead and mentor the retail property management team.
• Oversee day-to-day management of retail assets.

Skills

Leadership and stakeholder management

Financial acumen

Negotiation

Proficiency in property management systems

Customer-focused

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Real Estate, or related field

Master’s degree

Professional certifications (CPM, RICS, ICSC)

Job description

Job Purpose

The Head of Retail Property Management is responsible for the strategic and operational oversight of the company’s retail property portfolio. The role ensures revenue growth, high occupancy, superior tenant satisfaction, compliance with regulations, and enhancement of asset value through strong leadership, operational excellence, and stakeholder engagement.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic business plans and budgets for the retail property management division in line with corporate objectives.
• Lead and mentor the retail property management team to deliver best-in-class services.
• Oversee day-to-day management of retail assets including tenant relations, leasing coordination, and facilities management.
• Drive occupancy and revenue growth by collaborating with leasing, marketing, and business development teams.
• Establish, track, and report KPIs covering occupancy, rental income, arrears, tenant satisfaction, and NOI.
• Build and maintain strong tenant relationships; resolve escalated tenant disputes and oversee contract negotiations.
• Monitor retail property market trends to identify opportunities for improvement and innovation.
• Approve and oversee vendor procurement, service contracts, and quality control.
• Manage preventive maintenance and capital improvement projects to sustain and enhance asset value.
• Ensure compliance with legal, regulatory, health & safety, and company standards.
• Present reports on financials, leasing status, and operational performance to senior management.
• Promote adoption of technology and sustainability practices in retail property operations.
• Lead crisis management and emergency response planning for retail properties.
• Represent the company at industry events, tenant forums, and stakeholder meetings.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Real Estate, Property Management, or related field (Master’s preferred).
• Professional certifications (CPM, RICS, ICSC) highly desirable.

Experience & Competencies

• 10+ years in property management with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role managing retail portfolios.
• Proven track record in driving asset value, financial performance, and tenant satisfaction.
• Strong understanding of retail leasing, operations, and market trends.
• Leadership and stakeholder management skills, including team development.
• High financial acumen: budgeting, forecasting, revenue optimization, and cost control.
• Skilled in negotiation, conflict resolution, and communication.
• Proficiency in property management systems and relevant technologies.
• Customer-focused, resilient, and results-driven.