Property Acquisition and Development Manager

Bright Horizons; Northampton, Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading childcare provider in the UK is seeking an Acquisition and Development Manager to strategically expand its nursery portfolio. This pivotal role involves researching potential locations, managing property acquisitions, and collaborating with various stakeholders. The ideal candidate should have a degree in property-related fields, extensive experience in property development, and strong negotiation skills. Join an award-winning company with flexible working options and great employee benefits.

Benefits

Flexible working

Wellbeing support

Discounts on retail and cinema

Be part of a mission-driven team

Qualifications

• Relevant education in Property, Real Estate, Urban Planning, or Surveying.
• MRICS qualification (or working towards it) is desirable.
• Experience in property acquisition/development (education, retail, or leisure preferred).

Responsibilities

• Research target locations and analyze demographics.
• Build relationships with developers, agents, and investors.
• Negotiate lease and purchase agreements.

Skills

Financial analysis

Strategic analysis

Negotiation

Relationship building

Education

Degree in Property/Real Estate/Urban Planning/Surveying

MRICS qualification

Job description

Acquisition and Development Manager (Property Experience/Qualification Essential)

📍 Hybrid | Travel to Northampton & London

💰 From £40,000 + Car Allowance - Driving Licence is essential

Bright Horizons UK is growing—and we’re looking for a strategic, commercially astute Acquisition and Development Manager to help us expand our nursery portfolio across the UK.

In this pivotal role, you’ll lead the identification, acquisition, and development of new nursery sites, working closely with developers, agents, and internal teams to bring high-quality childcare settings to life. From site sourcing and feasibility analysis to legal negotiations and post‑opening performance reviews, you’ll be at the heart of our growth strategy.

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Researching target locations and analysing demographics
• Building relationships with developers, agents, and investors
• Leading due diligence and feasibility assessments
• Negotiating lease and purchase agreements
• Preparing business cases for board approval
• Overseeing development through to nursery opening
• Reviewing performance post‑launch to inform future strategy

What We’re Looking For:

• Relevant Education – Degree in Property / Real Estate / Urban Planning / Surveying
• MRICS qualification (or working towards) desirable
• Experience in property acquisition/development (education, retail, or leisure preferred)
• Strong financial and strategic analysis skills
• Knowledge of planning, lease law, and contract negotiation
• Full UK driving licence essential

Why Join Bright Horizons?

🌟 Voted a Great Place to Work 17 years running

🌱 Flexible working & wellbeing support

🎟️ Discounts on retail, cinema, holidays & more

📈 Be part of a mission‑driven team shaping the future of early years education

We’re proud to be an inclusive employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. All roles are subject to Enhanced DBS checks.