Job Description

About St John's Estate

St John's Estate is a well-established and prestigious residential estate situated in the Higgovale suburb of Cape Town. The Estate is known for its tranquil environment, landscaped gardens, and well-maintained communal areas. The Homeowners' Association is committed to maintaining a high standard of living, security, and sustainability for all residents.

To support this objective, the Trustees invite applications for the position of

Estate Manager

-- a key operational and managerial role responsible for the overall upkeep, functionality, and integrity of the Estate.

Role Overview

The Estate Manager will be responsible for the effective management, maintenance, and administration of the Estate and its facilities.

This includes oversight of all maintenance and service functions, staff supervision, contractor coordination, water management systems, compliance monitoring, and liaison between residents, service providers, and the Trustees.
The ideal candidate will have strong technical aptitude, leadership ability, and administrative discipline, coupled with the interpersonal skills required to represent the Estate professionally and diplomatically.

Key Responsibilities

1. Estate Operations & Maintenance

Oversee the maintenance and appearance of all common property, infrastructure, gardens, lighting, roads, and shared facilities. Conduct regular estate inspections to identify defects, safety risks, and maintenance priorities Implement proactive maintenance schedules and ensure timely corrective action where required. Supervise and perform minor repairs and maintenance work; arrange specialist contractors for larger or technical tasks with Trustee approval. Maintain compliance with all applicable safety, building, and electrical certification requirements (e.g. COC updates). Monitor and ensure adherence to the Estate's building and alteration approval procedures.

2. Staff Supervision & Human Resources

Directly manage all Estate staff, including grounds, cleaning, and maintenance personnel. Allocate and monitor daily duties and performance, manage attendance and leave, and ensure professionalism in conduct and appearance. Maintain fair and compliant staff relations in accordance with basic labour principles and HOA standards. Coordinate "bin day" logistics each Monday, including vehicle operation and ensuring all bins are cleaned and returned to units.

3. Security Oversight

Serve as the primary liaison with the Estate's appointed security service provider. Monitor access control systems, visitor management, and incident reporting. Promptly report any breaches, irregularities, or security concerns to the Trustees. Conduct periodic reviews of the Estate's security protocols and recommend improvements where necessary.

4. Contractor & Service Provider Management

Oversee and coordinate external service providers (garden, pest control, maintenance, plumbing, irrigation, etc.). Evaluate contractor performance and service quality, providing feedback and recommendations to the Trustees. Ensure all service contracts are properly managed, renewed, or tendered as required.

5. Water Systems & Environmental Management

Manage and monitor both municipal and borehole water systems, including meters, pumps, pressure regulation, tanks, and irrigation systems. Record and report water consumption and losses weekly and monthly, identifying abnormalities or leaks. Ensure operational integrity of the borehole and initiate servicing or corrective action where required. Promote responsible water use and contribute to sustainability initiatives within the Estate.

6. Administration & Reporting

Maintain comprehensive records of all operational activities, maintenance logs, incidents, and communications. Compile and submit detailed monthly management reports to the Board of Trustees. Maintain filing systems (digital and hard copy) for maintenance schedules, supplier invoices, and compliance certificates. Assist with budget inputs and cost-saving recommendations where relevant.

7. Governance & Compliance

Uphold and enforce the Estate's Rules, Regulations, and Policies in a fair and consistent manner. Remain informed of relevant municipal and legislative changes affecting the Estate and communicate these to the Trustees. Support the implementation of Trustee resolutions and strategic initiatives.

8. Communication & Resident Relations

Serve as an approachable and professional point of contact for residents, owners, and contractors. Log and address resident queries and complaints efficiently, referring to formal disputes through the Managing Agent as required. Maintain confidentiality and discretion in all personal and resident matters. Represent the Estate positively in all interactions with residents and external stakeholders.

9. General Duties

Attend Trustee meetings as required and provide operational feedback, proposals, and progress updates. Be available after hours for emergencies or urgent Estate matters. Perform any reasonable additional tasks as may be requested by the Trustees from time to time in the interests of the Estate.

Requirements

Qualifications, Skills, and Experience

Minimum

Requirements:

Matric or equivalent NQF Level 4 qualification. At least

5 years' experience

in estate, property, or facilities management, preferably within a residential or sectional title environment. Sound knowledge of maintenance coordination, building services, and contractor management. Strong administrative and reporting capability, including computer literacy (MS Office, Excel, email communication). Valid driver's licence and own reliable transport.

Preferred / Advantageous:

Technical or trade-related background (electrical, mechanical, plumbing, or construction). Understanding of municipal processes, health and safety regulations, and compliance standards. Experience liaising with trustees, managing agents, and security or service contractors. Exposure to water management systems and basic irrigation or pump maintenance will be beneficial.

Personal Attributes

Professional, well-presented, and service-oriented. Strong leadership and people management ability. Proactive, disciplined, and attentive to detail. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Reliable, trustworthy, and able to maintain confidentiality. Calm and diplomatic under pressure. Able to work independently and take initiative while keeping Trustees informed.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit the following to

justin.josias@sltrust.co.za

by 15 January 2026 A comprehensive CV; A cover letter outlining suitability for the position; and Contactable references from previous employers.


Shortlisted applicants will be contacted for interviews. The Trustees of St John's Estate Homeowners' Association reserve the right not to make an appointment.