New Development Lease Up Manager - Student Housing

University Partners•Charlottesville, VA

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The New Development Community Manager is responsible for leading all onsite operations for a newly developed student housing community from pre-opening through stabilization. This role plays a critical part in driving lease-up performance, building the onsite team, and establishing operational standards that support long-term success. This position requires a hands-on, adaptable leader who can manage competing priorities, partner cross-functionally, and deliver results during a high-growth phase.

Requirements

3+ years of experience as a Community Manager in student housing environment
Prior lease-up experience is required
Proven ability to lead teams in fast-paced, seasonal leasing environments
Strong understanding of student leasing cycles, operational execution, and financial performance
Experience with property management systems such as Entrata or similar
Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills
Ability to adapt quickly and lead through change

Responsibilities

Lead pre-opening and lease-up efforts, including readiness planning, staffing, and operational setup
Execute leasing strategies to meet occupancy, pre-leasing, and revenue goals aligned with the academic calendar
Monitor leasing performance, traffic, conversion, and pricing trends; adjust strategy in real time
Partner with marketing teams on outreach, events, and campus engagement initiatives
Recruit, hire, train, and manage onsite teams including Leasing Consultants and Maintenance staff
Establish performance expectations, schedules, and accountability across the team
Coach team members on student-focused leasing, customer service, and resident engagement
Manage operating budgets, expenses, and revenue in alignment with ownership expectations
Review financial reports, rent rolls, and variance explanations; recommend corrective actions
Ensure accurate leasing data, resident files, and reporting within property management systems
Oversee resident relations, service standards, and issue resolution in a student environment
Ensure compliance with Fair Housing, student housing regulations, and company policies
Maintain a safe, well-managed community during peak leasing and move-in periods
Partner with Development, Construction, Asset Management, and Regional leadership during transition from build to operations
Coordinate vendors, service providers, and campus-facing partners
Serve as the primary onsite representative for internal stakeholders and ownership