Leasing Manager

Makani; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 300,000 - 540,000; Full time

Job summary

Makani in Abu Dhabi is seeking a Leasing Manager to develop and execute leasing strategies across the assigned retail portfolio, aiming to maximize occupancy and rental income.

The role focuses on attracting local and international brands, negotiating lease terms, managing tenant relationships, and coordinating with Marketing and Operations to drive mall performance.

Job description

The Leasing Manager will be responsible for developing and executing leasing strategies across the assigned retail portfolio to maximize occupancy, rental income and overall asset performance. The role will focus on attracting suitable retail brands, negotiating lease agreements, maintaining strong tenant relationships and ensuring the right tenant mix in line with market conditions and commercial objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement leasing strategies aligned with occupancy, revenue and commercial targets.
• Identify, approach and secure suitable local and international retail brands.
• Conduct market research to track retail trends, competitor activity and rental benchmarks.
• Prepare and present leasing proposals, layouts and commercial terms to prospective tenants.
• Lead lease negotiations covering rent, lease tenure, fit-out periods and other commercial conditions.
• Proactively manage lease expiry schedules and ensure renewals are negotiated and finalized in advance.
• Coordinate with Legal and relevant internal teams on lease agreements, renewals, amendments and supporting documentation.
• Maintain an effective tenant mix that supports footfall and overall mall performance.
• Review tenant performance and recommend renewals, relocations or replacements where required.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with existing tenants, brokers and retail brands.
• Act as a key point of contact for leasing-related tenant matters.
• Work closely with Marketing and Operations teams to support tenant performance and mall initiatives.
• Prepare leasing reports, forecasts, budgets and occupancy updates for management review.
• Maintain accurate leasing records, tenant databases and related documentation.
• Support asset management initiatives aimed at improving rental yield and asset value.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Real Estate, Marketing or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years of relevant leasing experience within shopping malls or retail real estate in the UAE.
• Strong understanding of retail leasing practices, lease structures and UAE market dynamics.
• Proven experience in lease negotiations and closing commercial deals.
• Strong commercial and financial acumen.
• Strong understanding of tenant mix and retail asset performance.
• Excellent negotiation, communication and relationship-management skills.
• Ability to work independently and deliver against leasing targets.
• Strong follow-up, coordination and stakeholder-management skills.
• Proficiency in MS Office and leasing/property management systems.