Question 1

Why choose LBM?

Accepted Answer

We think that we offer a great place to work. Based in Islington, our portfolio is diverse and interesting, covering the whole of central London. The team is dynamic and ambitious. For the best individuals, we offer competitive packages and excellent training and career progression opportunities.

Question 2

What training is offered?

Accepted Answer

Training is tailored to each individual. Staff are encouraged to take IRPM exams (paid for by the company). Regular seminars and training events are held. External courses and conferences can be attended. Staff are all mentored and have the benefit of an experienced team around them to learn from – if you don’t know the answer to something, a colleague will!

Question 3

Is there a fixed period for training if I have no previous experience?

Accepted Answer

Staff are encouraged to undertake continuous personal development, so there is no fixed period for training. If you have no previous experience, you will be immersed in the world of block management from day one and will pick it up very quickly. This will be supported by external introductory courses. For more experienced staff, an assessment of training needs will be made and these will be quickly implemented.

Question 4

Do you send staff on external courses?

Accepted Answer

Yes we use a combination of training techniques – which include internal and external courses, webinars, conferences and individual mentoring.

Question 5

What qualifications do I need to apply?

Accepted Answer

The majority of our staff are degree educated to undergraduate level or above. Being the right fit for us and having the right experience is equally important. We encourage staff to sit IRPM exams and have staff who hold AssocRICS qualifications.

Question 6

What is a typical day like at LBM?

Accepted Answer

No two days are alike because no two blocks are the same. Daily and routine tasks are interspersed with site visits, client meetings and dealing with matters as they arise. Given the nature of block management, the latter point can be more often than not…!

Question 7

How many blocks will I manage?

Accepted Answer

We do not have a fixed number of buildings per Portfolio Manager. This is determined by your experience / seniority, the size and complexity of the buildings, the magnitude of issues in the properties within your portfolio, where the buildings are located etc. We do not overload our Portfolio Managers – we ensure that they have the time they need to work on each building in their portfolio.

Question 8

What size / type of blocks will I manage?

Accepted Answer

This will depend on your level and experience. The portfolio is diverse in terms of age, size and geography. The portfolio is growing so there are opportunities to get involved with new and different buildings as time goes on. The number of buildings and units managed by each Portfolio Manager is less than at many of our competitors meaning that you have enough time to be proactive dealing with issues rather than just reactively responding to issues as they occur.

Question 9

Where is your office and what is it like?

Accepted Answer

Our office is in the heart of Islington on a street directly opposite Angel station. We have been in the same building since 2010, and in 2022 we took the opportunity to move to one of the larger floors in the building when it became available.  The office is around 4,000 square feet in size and is light, modern and well laid out.  The building is also currently (in early 2024) undergoing a full refurbishment of the common parts.  All of the amenities of Islington are within easy reach – with restaurants, shops and supermarkets all being a few minutes’ walk away.

Question 10

Can I work from home?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all staff are able to work from home if they wish to.  Teams are each allocated two days of the week when they can work from home or undertake site visits.  All staff are required to be in the office each Thursday to ensure that there is a sense of cohesion in the office and to ensure that all staff have the opportunity to interact and get to know each other.

Question 11

Will I undertake site visits?

Accepted Answer

Yes, if you manage properties, you will be expected to visit your whole portfolio on at least a monthly basis.  You will also attend site when works are happening or if issues arise and for client meetings.

Question 12

Will I be part of a team or working alone?

Accepted Answer

Staff are very much part of a team at LBM. There are three teams of Portfolio Managers, each run by a Portfolio Director. Each team has a Senior Portfolio Manager, several Portfolio Managers, Assistant Portfolio Managers and Assistants. There is constant mentoring and assistance provided. Although you will be allocated your own portfolio, others are always on hand to help you – and you will provide assistance to others. Client meetings are always attended by two individuals, providing support and cover if anyone is on holiday or absent.

Question 13

Is the office sociable?

Accepted Answer

At London Block Management, we put a great emphasis on developing a social culture in the office. We organise quarterly events such as charity bake-offs, pizza evenings, group outings, treasure hunts, game nights, sports competitions and more!

Question 14

How often is an employee’s performance appraised?

Accepted Answer

Annual staff appraisals are undertaken of all staff. In the first year of employment, quarterly mini-reviews are undertaken to ensure everything is going well and plan any training requirements etc. Weekly team meetings are held which is your opportunity to raise any issues.

Question 15

Is there a path for career progression?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely, the office has always been a meritocracy with the best individuals quickly rising up through the company, with benefits to match.

Question 16

What is the annual holiday allowance?

Accepted Answer

All staff start on 25 days holiday plus bank holidays. From year 5 to year 10 of employment, staff get an extra day of holiday per year – so after 10 years of service, you would have 30 days holiday plus bank holidays.

Question 17

Does it matter if I don’t have a driving licence?

Accepted Answer

No, given that our portfolio is all in central London. We have pool cars that staff with full clean UK driving licences can use when required to visit their portfolios. However, we actively encourage the use of public transport and most buildings can be reached easily by public transport and a short walk

Career FAQs