At Nido, we create more than just student accommodation – we build vibrant communities where students can thrive. As a fast-growing student housing provider in Europe, we put people and the planet first, delivering exceptional spaces, conscious communities, and unparalleled experiences.
We are undertaking an ambitious and strategic journey to become Europe’s leading provider of Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA). With a strong existing portfolio of 12,000 beds across 32 properties in the Iberian Peninsula, and an active expansion into key markets including Germany and Italy, we are building the foundations for long-term, pan-European growth. With this growth in mind, we place a strong emphasis on quality, safety, and compliance in everything we do. As part of our commitment to operational excellence, we are expanding our Portfolio Management function to support our continued growth.
As we grow our footprint, we are seeking a commercially astute and analytically skilled Portfolio Manager to join our team in Madrid. In this role, you will shape the performance and growth of a leading PBSA portfolio, combining financial acumen and strategic insight with the opportunity to influence investment decisions, enhance student experiences, and collaborate with international teams and investors. You’ll be the driving force behind optimising performance, identifying value-enhancement opportunities, and translating insights into actionable strategies. Working closely with senior stakeholders and cross-functional teams across Europe, you’ll monitor market trends, anticipate challenges, and lead the delivery of initiatives that create long-term value for our business and our investors.
Your ability to see the big picture while diving deep into the details will be instrumental in sustaining Nido’s reputation for operational excellence and delivering exceptional living experiences for our residents.
KEY TASKS & RESPONSIBILITIES (include but are not limited to)
Portfolio Management
- Develop and implement strategic portfolio management plans for each asset, aligning investment and operational initiatives with Nido’s business objectives and shareholder requirements.
- Own and maintain asset-level financial models, ensuring accuracy in cashflow forecasts and capital structure assumptions.
- Lead the asset valuation process in coordination with internal teams and external valuers, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and timely delivery to support reporting and strategic decision-making.
- Conduct in-depth financial analysis, including revenue forecasting, expense management, and budgeting, to maximise returns and optimise operations. Assess the viability of refurbishment, redevelopment, or other strategic projects to enhance asset value.
- Prepare detailed hold/sell asset reviews for senior management, incorporating financial performance analysis, market benchmarking, and asset-level business plan assessments; support the preparation of high-quality presentations and decision materials for the Investment Committee.
- Support in structuring creative financing solutions and, where required, assist in negotiating and executing new debt packages.
Reporting & Insights
- Develop, monitor, and analyse performance metrics — from occupancy trends to financial results — to identify value drivers, mitigate risks, and unlock opportunities. Compare actual performance to budget and market indicators, identifying early warning signs and recommending corrective actions.
- Track PBSA market trends, competitor activity, investment landscape, and regulatory developments, using insights to inform pricing, product positioning, and investment strategy.
- Prepare clear and insightful reports for senior management and investors; support in the preparation of Board Meetings materials.
- Prepare and coordinate lender reporting, ensuring compliance with financing agreements and delivering accurate updates on asset performance, financial metrics, and covenant monitoring.
- Deliver presentations that translate complex data into compelling narratives and strategic recommendations.
- Maintain open, regular communication with stakeholders, providing updates on performance, market trends, and strategic initiatives.
Risk Management & Compliance
- Identify, assess, and mitigate risks across the portfolio.
- Integrate ESG considerations into asset strategies, including energy efficiency, sustainability certifications, and social impact initiatives.
- Monitor compliance with regulatory requirements, industry standards, and investment guidelines.
- Stay ahead of changes in legislation and market dynamics, adapting strategies where needed to protect and enhance asset value.
Leadership & Collaboration
- Inspire and guide colleagues, fostering a positive, inclusive, and high-performing work culture.
- Provide mentorship, set performance goals, and conduct regular feedback sessions to support professional growth.
- Work closely with cross-functional teams across Europe to align operational and development objectives with asset management plans.
- Advance portfolio management practices, drive organizational change, and establish best practices for sustainable growth and operational excellence.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Real Estate, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field; an advanced degree (MBA, MFin, CFA) is a plus
- 5+ years of experience in real estate portfolio management — ideally with exposure to PBSA / Hotels or other operational real estate sectors.
- A proven track record of managing complex investments across multiple geographies, preferably within a real estate or private equity fund environment.
- Demonstrated success in investor reporting, financial fund management, and performance optimisation.
- Comprehensive knowledge of real estate markets, investment strategies, and asset classes.
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex datasets and respond effectively to sensitive business challenges.
- Fluency in English is essential; additional European languages (especially Spanish, German or Italian) are highly desirable.
KEY PERSONAL SKILLS & TRAITS
- Analytical & Strategic Thinking: Able to assess complex financial, market, and operational data to drive informed decision-making.
- Financial Acumen: Strong command of forecasting, budgeting, and modelling to maximise returns and mitigate risks.
- Problem-Solving Mindset: Skilled at identifying challenges early and developing creative, pragmatic solutions.
- Time Management & Precision: Highly organised with exceptional attention to detail, capable of managing multiple priorities under tight deadlines.
- Negotiation Skills: Experienced in securing favourable terms in debt, lease, or investment agreements.
- Relationship Builder: Confident in engaging with a wide range of stakeholders — from investors to internal teams — to create collaborative, trust-based partnerships.
- Integrity & Resilience: Committed to ethical standards and able to maintain focus and composure under pressure.
