Lead Business Rates Strategist

FI Property Group; Preston; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private healthcare post-probation

Market Competitive Salary

Pension - 3% employer / 5% employee

25 days holiday + bank holidays

Birthday off post-probation

Referral bonus after probation

Company sick pay

Job summary

FI Property Group seeks a motivated Business Rates Surveyor to lead the internal business rates strategy across a multi-billion-pound commercial property portfolio. You will advise on liabilities, appeals, and cost-saving opportunities for clients.

The role is full time, permanent and based in the office/on site, with flexibility to travel to sites. MRICS qualified with 3–10 years' experience in business rates advisory is preferred. Strong communication with councils and VOA is expected.

Qualifications

• MRICS-qualified professional with experience in business rates
• Experience in business rates advisory and property valuation, including Valuation Tribunal exposure
• Knowledge of Revaluation lists, lease forms, and transitional relief mechanics
• Strong analytical and numerical skills with ability to explain complex calculations

Responsibilities

• Strategic Advisory: provide expert rating advice to teams on acquisitions, refurbishments, and vacant space strategies
• Empty Space Mitigation: design and implement empty property rate mitigation schemes across large vacancies
• Rate Appeals & Reductions: identify opportunities for appeals and negotiate reductions with VOA and local authorities
• Valuation & Analysis: conduct property valuations for business rates and assess impact of revaluations
• Overseeing Compliance: ensure adherence to Local Government Finance Act and VOA regulations
• Engaging with local councils and governing bodies to resolve business rates and BID issues
• Negotiate with VOA case officers and local authority billing teams
• Regularly review property portfolios to ensure accurate rates assessments and cost savings
• Prepare detailed reports and case files for clients with clarity and accuracy
• Collaborate with Property Management, valuation, and legal teams to deliver client service

Skills

Business rates advisory experience

Valuation Tribunal experience

Strong communication skills

liaising with authorities

Property management software

Rating software

Microsoft Office Suite

Education

MRICS Qualified

Tools

Rating software

Property management software

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

FI Property Group seeks a motivated Business Rates Surveyor to lead the internal business rates strategy across a multi-billion-pound commercial property portfolio. You will advise on liabilities, appeals, and cost-saving opportunities for clients.

The role is full time, permanent and based in the office/on site, with flexibility to travel to sites. MRICS qualified with 3–10 years' experience in business rates advisory is preferred. Strong communication with councils and VOA is expected.