About Us
At Estatesearch, we are a dynamic and forward-thinking company specialising in providing innovative legal technology services for private client professionals. With years of experience in the industry, we are dedicated to helping law firms and their clients navigate the complexities of estate administration matters with ease and efficiency.
Our team combines deep market knowledge, cutting-edge technology, and a customer-centric approach to deliver tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of each client.
We pride ourselves in offering a comprehensive range of services, from Financial Profile Searches to Insurance products. Our commitment to excellence, transparency, and integrity has earned us a reputation as a trusted partner in the legal tech industry.
As we continue to grow and expand, we are seeking a passionate, dedicated individual to join our team. You'll have the opportunity to work in a collaborative and supportive environment, where your ideas and contributions are valued. If you're looking to take your career to the next level in a company that prioritises professional development and growth, we want to hear from you.
Location: Office based in Burgess Hill RH15 9AE
About the role:
The new Panel Manager role includes design, implementation and management of a UK wide panel of property‑related suppliers. This is a critical role in ensuring Estatesearch Property team delivers consistent, high‑quality services while maintaining stringent standards and operational control.
The Panel Manager will be responsible for onboarding, managing and continuously improving a network of third‑party suppliers covering all property services offered by Estatesearch Property.
Key responsibilities:
- Design and implement a structured supplier panel model covering:
- Contents clearance
- Contents valuation and sale
- Estate agent valuations
- Vacant property maintenance
- Property sales by auction and via estate agents
- RICS probate valuations and surveys
- Define panel entry criteria, service standards, SLAs and KPIs
- Lead supplier due diligence, onboarding and contract setup
- Ensure panel compliance with regulatory, professional and Estatesearch Group requirements
- Act as the primary relationship manager for panel suppliers
- Monitor supplier performance against agreed KPIs and SLAs
- Conduct regular performance reviews and audits
- Address performance issues and lead corrective actions where required
- Manage supplier renewals, removals and replacements
- Ensure services are delivered in line with RICS standards, probate requirements and best practice
- Embed robust quality assurance and escalation processes
- Identify and manage supplier‑related risks
- Ensure appropriate insurance, accreditations and certifications are maintained
- Support the negotiation of commercial terms and fee structures
- Drive consistency, value for money and cost control across the panel
- Work closely with Operations, Sales and Customer Success teams
- Support service development and continuous improvement initiatives
- Act as a key internal subject matter expert on property service suppliers
- Support client queries or escalations relating to supplier delivery when required
- Contribute to panel and service reporting for the Head of Group Operations
Person specification:
Essential
- Proven experience managing supplier panels or third‑party frameworks
- Strong background in property services, estate agency, surveying, probate services or a related field
- Experience setting service standards, SLAs and KPIs
- Excellent stakeholder and supplier management skills
- Strong commercial awareness and contract management capability
- High attention to detail and a structured, process‑driven approach
Desirable
- Experience working with RICS‑regulated services or probate‑related property matters
- Knowledge of auction sales and vacant property management
- Experience in regulated or compliance‑driven environments
- Familiarity with ISO, risk management or supplier assurance frameworks
· Highly organised and confident managing multiple suppliers
· Comfortable setting expectations and holding suppliers to account
· Strong problem‑solving and decision‑making skills
· Collaborative, professional and credible with senior stakeholders
· Committed to quality, governance and continuous improvement
Core behaviours:
Ambitious
- Encourages growth and development of team members.
- Sets high expectations and supports others to meet them.
- Role-models a growth mindset and learning culture.
Brave
- Tackles difficult conversations with empathy and clarity.
- Makes bold decisions when needed, even if uncomfortable.
- Fosters an environment where people feel safe to speak up.
Curious
- Creates space for questioning and innovation within the team.
- Encourages experimentation and learning from failure.
- Seeks diverse input before deciding on a course of action.
Dynamic
- Leads teams positively through change with clarity and confidence.
- Balances strategic goals with day-to-day needs.
- Responds quickly and thoughtfully in fast-moving situations.
Empathetic
- Understands team dynamics and supports emotional wellbeing.
- Tailors leadership style to individual.
- Champions inclusive practices and diverse perspectives.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £45,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Cycle to work scheme
- Health & wellbeing programme
- Life insurance
- Private medical insurance
- Sick pay
- Work from home
Experience:
- Business development: 5 years (required)
Work Location: In person