Estate Operations Manager - Upper Highway, KZN, Durban, South Africa

We are looking for a professional Estate Operations Manager who will be responsible for the efficient day-to-day management of all physical assets, infrastructure, maintenance programmes, and outsourced service delivery across a large established residential estate. Reporting directly to the General Manager, this role serves as the operational backbone of the management association — ensuring that the estate is maintained to the highest standards of safety, functionality, and aesthetic presentation.

The successful candidate will be a visible, hands-on leader who combines technical facilities management capability with strong people management, commercial awareness, and the professional communication skills expected in a premier estate environment.

Minimum Qualifications

• National Diploma or Bachelor's Degree in Facilities Management, Property Management, Construction Management, Engineering, or a closely related field.
• A professional registration or certification (e.g., SAFMA, IFMA, or equivalent) will be advantageous.

Experience

• Minimum 3–5 years' experience in facilities management, estate operations, property maintenance, or infrastructure management.
• Demonstrated experience managing maintenance teams and outsourced service contractors.
• Experience in a residential estate, commercial property, or community association environment is strongly preferred.
• Proven track record of managing capital maintenance projects from scoping through to completion.
• Experience with reserve fund / capital replacement planning and asset lifecycle management is advantageous.

Technical Knowledge

• Sound working knowledge of building maintenance disciplines: civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing.
• Familiarity with water treatment and reticulation systems, stormwater management, and sewer infrastructure.
• Understanding of the Occupational Health and Safety Act and relevant SANS standards.
• Competence with maintenance management systems, asset registers, and standard business software (MS Office, particularly Excel).

Personal Attributes and Competencies

• Energy and Drive – A self-starter who brings visible energy to the role, is physically active across the estate, and takes initiative without waiting to be directed.
• Intelligence and Problem-Solving – Able to think critically, analyse operational challenges, and develop practical, cost-effective solutions.
• Professional Presentation – Well-presented, articulate, and comfortable engaging with residents, Board members, contractors, and municipal officials at all levels.
• Accountability – Takes ownership of outcomes, meets deadlines, and does not deflect responsibility.
• Communication – Strong written and verbal communication skills; able to produce clear, structured reports and correspond professionally.
• People Leadership – Engages teams with clarity and fairness; earns respect through competence and consistent follow-through rather than positional authority.
• Attention to Detail – Maintains high standards in record-keeping, quality control, and the aesthetic presentation of the estate.
• Resilience – Comfortable managing competing priorities in a dynamic environment; maintains composure under pressure.