Rural Surveyor – Cowdray Estate, West Sussex

The Cowdray Estate is one of England’s leading rural estates, combining a rich heritage with a forward-thinking approach to estate management and its property portfolio. Covering approximately 16,000 acres within the South Downs National Park, the Estate manages a diverse portfolio that includes residential and commercial property, let farms, woodland and sporting interests. In addition it undertakes residential development on strategic sites, retaining new builds for future rental income.

We are seeking a Rural Surveyor to join our Property Management team based in the Estate Office in Easebourne, West Sussex. This is an exceptional opportunity to play an important role in the management and long-term stewardship of one of the country’s most respected rural estates.

The Role

Reporting to the Senior Property Surveyor, you will be responsible for the let agricultural land management strategy across Cowdray’s iconic 16,000-acre estate. Operating with a high degree of autonomy at 5 years Post-Qualified Experience (PQE), the postholder will manage a diverse rural land portfolio. They will oversee farm tenancies, and champion pioneering within the sensitive regulatory landscape of the South Downs National Park.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage landlord and tenant relationships across all agricultural holdings, including traditional Agricultural Holdings Act (AHA) tenancies, Farm Business Tenancies (FBTs), and grazing licences.
• Rent Reviews & Disposals: In accordance with agreed strategy, lead negotiations for agricultural rent reviews, lease renewals, tenant right valuations, and tenancy successions.
• Support the Property team with day-to-day management of the rural residential portfolio, including rent reviews and resolving management issues.
• Boundary & Access Management: Resolve boundary questions, public rights of way matters, and handle third-party compensation claims, wayleaves, and easements.
• Coordinate land-use requirements with the Land Management, Forestry and Deer Management departments to balance timber production, deer stalking, and environmental schemes.
• Enterprise Support: Assist leisure and sporting divisions (e.g., Cowdray Park Polo Club or Fly Fishing) with rural infrastructure, access licenses, and land management logistics.