Director of Estates

Are you ready to lead one of London's most significant historic estates? The Honourable Society of the Middle Temple has an exciting opportunity for a Director of Estates to play a central role in the stewardship, development and future of a unique heritage estate.
Location: London, EC4Y 9BT
Salary: Competitive salary
Job Type: Full Time, Permanent
Hours: 37.5 hrs per week (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5.30pm)
Closing Date: Thursday 11 June 2026, 10am
About The Honourable Society of The Middle Temple:
As one of the four historic Inns of Court, the Honourable Society of the Middle Temple is proud to support, educate and accommodate barristers at every stage of their careers.
The Inn has occupied its estate on the banks of the Thames since the fourteenth century, with the land formally granted in 1608 by King James I for the education and accommodation of those practising or training in the law – a purpose that continues to define Middle Temple today.
Director of Estates - The Role:
This role offers a rare opportunity to lead one of London's most significant historic estates and to help shape its future for generations to come.
You will hold strategic and operational responsibility for the management and development of Middle Temple's historic estate – a designated Conservation Area comprising many Grade I, II* and II Listed Buildings, the Temple Church and award-winning gardens.
You will manage a significant property portfolio comprising professional, commercial and residential tenants, balancing the conservation of a significant heritage environment with the strategic, operational and commercial management of a complex, multi-use site. Importantly, you will optimise income generation ensuring that the estate continues to deliver revenue in support of the Inn’s purpose.
To achieve this, you will lead a multi-disciplinary team, oversee major capital projects, estate operations and building control arrangements, working closely with the Inn’s Officers, governing committees and Executive team.
Director of Estates - Key Responsibilities:
-Drive income generation through effective rental property management, tenancy arrangements and commercial opportunities
-Develop and deliver a long-term Estates strategy aligned with the Inn's vision, supported by robust procedures for effective delivery
- Oversee the maintenance, conservation and development of historic buildings, courts, gardens and infrastructure
- Lead major capital projects, ensuring delivery on time, within budget and to the highest standards
- Manage operational and capital budgets, ensuring cost efficiency and value for money
- Embed sustainability principles and energy efficiency across all estate management whilst preserving historic character
- Lead and inspire a multi-disciplinary team, fostering collaboration, accountability and high performance
Director of Estates – About You:
- Degree in Building Surveying, Architecture or a related discipline with membership of a relevant professional body (e.g. RICS, RIBA or IWFM)
- Proven experience in optimising income generation through rental property management
- Senior level Estates leadership experience in a historically significant environment
- Proven track record delivering complex capital projects and major renovations
- Strong understanding of conservation principles, sustainability and statutory compliance
- Experience managing substantial budgets with effective financial oversight and cost control
- Proven ability leading and motivating multi-disciplinary teams
- Excellent stakeholder engagement, negotiation and communication skills
- Strategic and analytical approach with strong commercial and financial acumen
Director of Estates - Benefits:
- Competitive salary
- 29 days annual leave plus bank holidays
- Discretionary Christmas Closure
- Non-contributory pension scheme (12% employer contributions)
- Private Medical Insurance
- Life Assurance (10 x annual salary)
- Health Cash Plan
- Learning and development opportunities
- Employee Assistance Programme, Eye Care and Flu Vouchers
- Season Ticket Loan
Application Process:
Middle Temple is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an environment that promotes equality, diversity, and inclusion.
Closing Date: Thursday 11 June 2026, 10am
Interviews:
First round: 23 June 2026
Second round: Early July 2026 (date to be confirmed)
To submit your application for this exciting Director of Estates opportunity, please click ‘Apply’ now