Latest news : Property managers in need

Though it’s not a profession that the majority of graduates will have thought, or even heard of, the Association of Residential Managing Agents (ARMA) is suggesting that careers in residential property management could offer good long-term career prospects for graduates.

According to the Association, employers in the sector are looking to recruit high quality people for careers in an area which has remained relatively untouched by the recession

Outlining the opportunities on offer for graduates in the sector, Brett Williams, Chairman of ARMA said, 'This is not just about a job for the sake of getting one. A career in property management offers real progression and future prospects. The nature of the leasehold sector means that today's property manager needs to develop a rich blend of skills: people and project management; leadership skills; budgeting and accounting; and an understanding of the relevant legal framework.'

With experience, a leasehold property manager can expect to be provided with their own portfolio of properties to manage as well as their own dedicated assistant and accountant. The sector also offers ongoing development opportunities and the chance to study towards professional qualifications.

'Ours is a sector which thankfully has remained largely unaffected by the recession,' says Brett. 'Not many property managers have been made redundant as a direct result of the downturn; residential leasehold blocks of flats and estates are always going to need managing and there will always be a need for quality people to do it.'

'The increasing complexity of the leasehold sector throws up fresh challenges daily so quality people are more in demand now than ever,' he concludes.