Overview
Our small Canadian‑born business was founded in 1978 and has become a global organization that now spans 120 locations across 20 countries. Our expansion has been rapid, but what matters most is the common belief that drives all 5,000 of our people to be a different type of real estate organization. We believe that the places in which we live, work and play have the power to make us happier and healthier, and we are united by a shared sense of purpose, to have a positive impact on people’s lives. In short, we are a global commercial real estate advisory firm with a simple aim: for real estate to play a leading role in creating vibrant buildings, cities and places that deliver long‑lasting social value and economic impact.
Our Story
Our small Canadian‑born business was founded in 1978 and has become a global organization that now spans 120 locations across 20 countries. Our expansion has been rapid, but what matters most is the common belief that drives all 5,000 of our people to be a different type of real estate organization. We believe that the places in which we live, work and play have the power to make us happier and healthier, and we are united by a shared sense of purpose, to have a positive impact on people’s lives. In short, we are a global commercial real estate advisory firm with a simple aim: for real estate to play a leading role in creating vibrant buildings, cities and places that deliver long‑lasting social value and economic impact.
Why Work for Us
* We are a diverse and inclusive workplace that values curiosity, passion and strategic intelligence.
* Collaboration is embedded in the way we work and we give our people autonomy to collaborate on client relationships, engage teams across the business, lead operations, work collectively on projects and participate in strategy.
* The Principal‑led, privately‑owned model provides every employee a chance to own a share of our business and inspires anyone to become a Principal.
Responsibilities
We are seeking a highly experienced and motivated Director to join our Student Accommodation Investment team. The successful candidate will lead on sourcing, structuring and executing investment transactions in the UK and European student housing sector, as well as developing and maintaining client relationships with institutional investors, operators and developers.
This is a senior leadership role requiring deep sector knowledge, proven deal‑making ability and the capacity to contribute to the continued growth of Avison Young’s alternatives platform.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead acquisition, disposal and structuring of student accommodation opportunities on behalf of institutional and private clients.
* Originate new mandates, foster client relationships and grow Avison Young’s profile in the student housing sector.
* Oversee preparation and review of financial models, investment appraisals and underwriting assumptions.
* Provide strategic advice to investors, developers and operators on market trends, funding structures and portfolio strategies.
* Manage full due‑diligence processes including financial, legal, technical and operational reviews.
* Monitor and report on student accommodation trends and market dynamics.
* Manage and mentor junior team members, ensuring high‑quality outputs and professional development.
* Work closely with colleagues across Capital Markets, Valuation, Planning and Development Consultancy to deliver integrated solutions for clients.
* Ensure all advice and transactions meet regulatory, risk and sustainability requirements.
Qualifications
* 8+ years’ experience in real‑estate investment, with a strong track record in student accommodation or alternative residential sectors.
* Proven ability to originate, structure and close complex investment transactions.
* Strong knowledge of UK and European student housing markets.
* Excellent financial modelling and appraisal skills.
* Established network of investors, operators and developers active in the sector.
* Strong negotiation and client‑facing skills.
* Degree in Real Estate, Finance, Economics or related discipline (postgraduate qualification preferred). Professional accreditation (MRICS, CFA or equivalent) desirable.
* Demonstrated leadership ability with experience managing and mentoring teams.
Personal Attributes
* Commercially minded and entrepreneurial, with the ability to identify and convert new business opportunities.
* Highly analytical and detail‑oriented with strategic and creative thinking.
* Strong interpersonal and presentation skills with confidence to engage senior stakeholders.
* Collaborative approach and ability to work effectively across multidisciplinary teams.
* Motivated, resilient and adaptable in a dynamic market environment.
Equal Opportunities
Avison Young is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to treating all employees and job applicants equitably. We are a Disability Confident Employer and welcome adjustments to support applications.
* We empower all employees to thrive, reflect all backgrounds and talents, and foster an inclusive workplace.
* We are committed to creating a workplace where individuals can succeed and feel a sense of belonging.
Some roles may be remote, and you will need to confirm you have the right to work in the UK.
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