General Manager | Build-to-Rent Melbourne

Our Story

Essence Communities is Australia and New Zealand’s largest Build-to-Rent (BTR) operator, delivering tailored management solutions backed by a 30-year legacy in property and asset management through our parent company, UniLodge Living Group.

We are shaping the future of rental living - combining commercial discipline with hospitality-led thinking to create communities where people feel they truly belong. As the BTR sector continues to evolve at pace, so do we - expanding our national footprint and redefining what best-in-class performance looks like.

About This Opportunity

Join us as General Manager where you will lead the day-to-day operations of a thriving Build to Rent community, driving operational excellence, financial performance, and an exceptional resident experience.

Working closely with key stakeholders, clients, and leadership teams, you will provide strategic direction to on-site teams while ensuring compliance, service delivery, and community engagement remain at the highest standard.

Your New Role, At a Glance

• Leading the overall operational and financial performance of a premium Build to Rent community
• Driving revenue growth, asset value, and leasing performance
• Delivering an exceptional resident experience that promotes satisfaction and retention
• Leading, mentoring, and developing a high-performing onsite team
• Building and maintaining strong relationships with clients, residents, and key stakeholders
• Overseeing compliance, risk management, and operational best practice
• Managing budgets, forecasting, and financial reporting
• Identifying opportunities to enhance asset performance and resident services
• Ensuring the property is maintained to the highest presentation and service standards
• Supporting the delivery of community engagement, leasing, and retention initiatives
• Driving a culture of customer service excellence and continuous improvement
• Playing a key role in shaping the success and growth of a market-leading Build to Rent community.

What You Will Bring:

Essence Communities Are Seeking An Experienced Property Professional With a Proven Track Record In Leasing, Operations, And Stakeholder Management Within The Residential, Commercial, Retail, Or Build To Rent Sectors. You Will Also Have

• Demonstrated experience in property leasing, operations, or asset management
• Strong financial acumen, with the ability to analyse performance and drive commercial outcomes
• Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills
• Completed Cert IV in Real Estate (VIC) or Estate Agent's Licence
• A valid National Police Check and unrestricted Australian working rights.

Why Join Us?

At Essence Communities, our people are at the heart of everything we do. We cultivate an environment where your contribution is recognised, and excellence is celebrated.

We Offer

• Competitive executive remuneration aligned to impact
• A genuine seat at the leadership table, shaping the future of BTR
• A high-performance, values-led culture
• Opportunities to influence a rapidly expanding national platform
• Exclusive travel and lifestyle benefits
• A connected, engaged and purpose-driven community
• Exclusive travel privileges, with preferred rates across Essence Hotels & Apartment
• Rewarding referral recognition, with up to $1,000 for introducing exceptional talent to our growing teams.

This is a unique opportunity to play a key leadership role in one of Australia's fastest-growing property sectors. Apply now and help shape the future of Build to Rent living!

Essence Communities is part of the UniLodge Living Group. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and welcome applications from diverse backgrounds.

We are a 2026 Circle Back Initiative Employer – we commit to respond to every applicant.