About Us:
Since 1888, Howkins & Harrison LLP have been trusted advisors to landowners, farmers, estates, investors and developers across the Midlands and beyond. Our reputation is built on deep agricultural knowledge, commercial awareness and long-standing client relationships.
With seven regional offices and a London presence, we combine heritage with ambition - delivering forward-thinking advice while remaining firmly rooted in the rural communities we serve.
We are now seeking a talented and motivated Estate Manager to join our Rural North team - an opportunity to become part of a respected, growing and supportive practice.
The Opportunity:
This role offers genuine breadth and responsibility within a well-established rural department.
Based in Ashby-de-la-Zouch, you will assist with the management of Country Estates and Agricultural Land Holdings, providing a first-class service to owners and tenants alike.
You will enjoy exposure to a varied portfolio of work including:
Property Management
- Demonstrating all elements of property management, ranging from Heritage Grade I Listed properties to residential refurbishment schemes
- Carrying out property inspections
- Drafting and managing repair schedules
- Managing multiple contractor instructions
- Arranging relevant quotations with contractors for more complex works
- Preparing feasibility studies and planned preventative maintenance programmes
- Advising and working with others on alternative enterprise schemes
- Preparing and updating work schedules and records
Tenancy and Letting Management (residential, agricultural and commercial)
- Marketing properties to let, including advising on market value & marketing
- Negotiating rent reviews and all aspects of the various Acts.
- Ad-hoc licences
Compliance and Financial Management
- Maintaining and delivering all property compliance and reporting, and managing the property terrier and related software
- Involvement in cash-flow management, with knowledge of estate budgets and cashflows as they relate to property
- Managing property rent arrears
Wider Estate Involvement
- Advising and supporting diversification projects
- Advising and supporting on Residential and Commercial Development Projects
- Coordinating and attending monthly board meetings, including liaising with external professional advisors as required
- Sales / Purchases
- Advising on Contract Farming Agreements and various Grant Schemes
This is not a narrow or siloed position. It is a hands-on, client-facing role offering autonomy, responsibility and the opportunity to build meaningful long-term relationships within the rural sector.
As your career develops, so too will your client base, influence and level of responsibility.
Who We're Looking For
We are looking for an individual who combines professional expertise with genuine enthusiasm for the rural community.
- MRICS qualified
- ARLA qualification would be useful
- A good working knowledge of the RRA and MEES, working with external advisors as required
- CDM training with a good understanding of relevant legislation would be desirable
- Excellent organisational, coordination and time management skills
- Ability to work effectively with individuals at all levels, developing and maintaining good working relationships, with excellent verbal and written communication skills
- A clear understanding of the principles and practice of good customer care
- Self-motivated, confident and able to use their own initiative, with a clear ability to multitask and to work accurately and effectively under pressure
- A team player with a flexible and positive attitude, committed and willing to get involved, with a good understanding of team dynamics
- A working understanding of farming and forestry, and associated grant schemes, would be desirable, working with external consultants as required
- Able to exercise confidentiality and discretion at all times
- A clean, full UK driving licence with use of own vehicle.
Most importantly, you will be motivated to build a long-term career within a respected rural practice and become embedded within the local community.
Why Join Howkins & Harrison?
We recognise that our people are our greatest asset. In return for your commitment and professionalism, we offer:
- Competitive salary, commensurate with experience
- Car allowance and mobile phone allowance
- 25 days holiday, with additional days for long service
- Your birthday off
- Professional membership subscriptions paid – RICS, VRS, CAAV, etc
- Pension plan
- Employee Assistance Programme with 24/7 GP access
- Enhanced family leave policies
- Life assurance cover
Beyond the package, you will benefit from working within a collaborative, knowledgeable and supportive team, with genuine opportunities for progression and professional development.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you're looking for a role that offers variety, responsibility and real career progression within a well-established rural firm, we'd love to hear from you. Send your CV to hr@howkinsandharrison.co.uk
