_{11th February, 2026}

Essence Communities is seeking a commercially driven Leasing Manager to drive the leasing performance of The Raleigh, our flagship Build-to-Rent development in Melbourne.

Opening in July 2026, The Raleigh represents a new standard in rental living. This is a pivotal leadership role responsible for delivering leasing strategy, optimising revenue and achieving occupancy and retention targets from initial lease-up through to stabilisation.

This role is ideal for a results-driven leasing professional who thrives in high-performance environments and understands that exceptional customer experience is the foundation of strong commercial outcomes.

About Essence Communities:
  
Essence Communities delivers tailored Build-to-Rent management solutions across Australia and New Zealand. As the largest operator in the emerging BTR sector, our platform is backed by a 27-year legacy of property and asset management through our parent brand UniLodge, Australia’s leading Purpose-Built Student Accommodation operator.

Our purpose is simple: to create communities where people truly belong - while delivering strong financial performance for our partners.

The Opportunity - Leasing Manager: 

The Leasing Manager is responsible for executing and continuously refining the leasing strategy to maximise occupancy, optimise rental income and support long-term asset performance.

You will lead the full leasing journey - from lead generation and inspections through to application processing, tenant vetting and renewals - ensuring every prospect interaction reflects a premium, hospitality-led experience.

Working closely with the General Manager, Head of Commercial and Marketing Manager, you will provide market insight, competitor analysis and strategic recommendations to ensure The Raleigh remains a market leader in Melbourne’s evolving rental landscape.

Key Accountabilities: 

• Develop and execute leasing strategy to optimise rental rates, occupancy, incentives and revenue performance in line with asset budgets
• Lead the end-to-end leasing journey, delivering premium inspections, strong lead conversion and exceptional prospect experience
• Drive renewal strategy and retention outcomes, achieving or exceeding established conversion targets
• Conduct ongoing market, competitor and pricing analysis to inform commercial decision-making and maximise NOI
• Manage CRM, lead nurturing, reporting and leasing data integrity to ensure accurate forecasting and performance tracking
• Ensure full legislative compliance across all leasing activities, applications, documentation and tenancy processes.

About You: 

You are commercially focused, detail-oriented and motivated by performance. You combine financial acumen with strong interpersonal skills and understand how to sell not just an apartment - but a lifestyle. 

• Unlimited right to work in Australia
• Valid National Police Check 
• Current Estate Agent's Licence or Cert IV in Real Estate Practice (VIC)
• Strong financial acumen and understanding of rate optimisation and occupancy strategy
• Demonstrated ability to exceed leasing and renewal KPIs
• Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills.

Your Asset – The Raleigh

The Raleigh is a landmark BTR development comprising 348 architecturally designed studio, one, two and three-bedroom apartments, complemented by a vibrant ground-floor retail precinct and one of Melbourne’s most comprehensive lifestyle and wellness amenity offerings.
Residents will enjoy access to:

• Co-working lounges
• Fully equipped gym
• Stunning pool
• Yoga retreat
• Basketball court
• Cinema
• Private dining rooms

Designed with people at its heart, The Raleigh’s nature-inspired form and abundance of shared spaces foster connection, wellbeing and flexibility in how residents live, work and relax.

Perfectly positioned between Windsor, Prahran and St Kilda, The Raleigh blends village life, green spaces and vibrant culture to redefine what it means to live well in Melbourne.

Life at Essence Communities

At Essence Communities, our people are at the heart of everything we do.
We offer:

• An inclusive and collaborative culture where individuality and contribution are valued
• A workplace where your voice matters, with opportunities to influence our future through engagement forums and Viva Engage
• Strong community and connection, with regular team events, celebrations and social initiatives
• Travel benefits with exclusive rates across Essence Hotels & Apartments.

Ready to Drive Performance?

Shape the leasing strategy. Influence asset performance. Help define the future of rental living.

Apply now with your resume and cover letter. For a confidential discussion, contact our Talent Acquisition team on (07) 3233 3700.

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

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