Director of Operations - Student Residences

The Lark Group is a family-owned and operated development, construction, and property management company that has been building transformative communities across British Columbia for over 50 years. With deep roots in healthcare, recreation, and institutional developments, we have proudly developed and now operate a diverse portfolio of real estate assets-including long-term care facilities, medical clinics, research labs, and community ice rinks.

As we continue to evolve, we are boldly stepping into the student housing space-developing a new, purpose-built residence in Surrey. This is an exciting new chapter for Lark's property management division, and we are looking for a strong operational leader to help us build, launch, and manage this facility from the ground up.

Learn more about who we are: www.larkgroup.com

Our Core Values

Drive | Authentic | Respect | Elevate | Safety | Be Bold

The Role

As director of Student Housing, you'd lead the strategic and operational planning for residence life, ensuring a positive and supportive environment for approximately 770 Students.

Reporting to the Vice President, Property Management, the Director of Operations - Student Residences will be involved from the outset of this new development. You'll help shape and structure the operation during construction and will be responsible for bringing the facility to life post-completion-overseeing everything from facility readiness, staffing and vendor selection, to resident experience and financial performance.

This is a rare opportunity to create and lead a brand-new, state-of-the-art facility and build its success story from day one.

Key Responsibilities

Pre-Operational Phase (Development & Set-Up)

• Develop and implement the strategic and operational plan for residence life, ensuring alignment with the overall goals of the institution.
• Collaborate with development and construction teams to ensure operational needs are integrated into design and build.
• Establish policies, procedures, and infrastructure for property management, operations, and resident services.
• Source and implement operational technology, maintenance systems, and tenant platforms.
• Develop vendor relationships and service contracts (e.g., janitorial, maintenance, landscaping, security, internet/cable).
• Create opening budgets, operating procedures, and staffing plans.
• Assist in marketing and lease-up strategy alongside internal and external teams.

Operational Phase (Ongoing Facility Management)

• Lead daily operations and administration of the facility to ensure a smooth, safe, and service-oriented living environment.
• Manage a multidisciplinary team of on-site staff and contractors, including front desk, maintenance, custodial, and resident services.
• Oversee financial performance of the property including budget management, rent collection, expense tracking, and financial reporting.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, municipal by-laws, and strata governance (if applicable).
• Coordinate and communicate with strata councils and other stakeholders when required.
• Maintain open and effective communication with students, staff and other stakeholders.
• Maintain preventive and reactive maintenance plans for all building systems (HVAC, plumbing, electrical, elevators, etc.).
• Lead emergency response planning, safety training, and risk mitigation strategies.
• Champion a positive resident experience through strong customer service, communications, and community-building initiatives.
• Address and resolve issues related to student housing and residence life in a timely and effective manner.
• Provide leadership and guidance to the residence staff, fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment.

Qualifications and Experience

• Minimum 7+ years of progressive experience in property or facility management; student housing or hospitality experience is an asset.
• Proven experience launching or operating residential or mixed-use buildings.
• Experience in developing and implementing strategic plans.
• Strong knowledge of building systems, regulatory standards, and vendor management.
• Excellent financial acumen with ability to manage budgets, track KPIs, and report to leadership.
• Experience managing strata relationships or governing bodies preferred.
• Outstanding leadership and team-building abilities; able to inspire and manage diverse teams.
• Strong interpersonal and problem-solving skills with a customer-first mindset focusing on student needs.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Comfortable in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment with shifting priorities.
• Experience in student housing and residence life is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with Yardi or other property management platforms considered an asset.

What We Offer

At Lark, we're passionate about building more than just structures-we build careers, opportunities, and community. As part of the Property Management team, you'll be at the heart of an exciting new initiative with long-term growth potential.

We offer a competitive compensation package, including:

• Generous base salary $110,000-$130,000 (commensurate with experience)
• Extended health and dental benefits
• RRSP matching
• Paid parking
• Flexible vacation and paid time off
• Profit-sharing
• On-site perks: 24/7 gym, rooftop terrace, in-house snacks and events