Introduction to Moda Living UK

Moda Living UK is a pioneering force in the UK’s real estate sector, specialising in the development of high-quality, design-led build-to-rent (BTR) communities. Headquartered in Manchester, the company has rapidly established itself as a market leader, with a portfolio spanning major cities including London, Birmingham, Liverpool, Edinburgh, and Glasgow. Moda Living UK’s business model focuses on creating vibrant, amenity-rich neighbourhoods that cater to modern renters, blending innovative architecture with sustainable practices. With over £3 billion in development pipeline and more than 10,000 homes under management, the company commands significant influence in the UK residential market. Its reputation for delivering exceptional customer experiences, coupled with a strong commitment to ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles, has earned it accolades from industry bodies such as the British Property Federation and the RIBA Awards. As a trusted partner for institutional investors, local authorities, and corporate tenants, Moda Living UK continues to redefine rental living standards across the country. This comprehensive profile explores the company’s history, strategy, culture, and the specific role of Senior Real Estate Development Manager, providing an exhaustive resource for job seekers and industry professionals alike.

Company History and Business Evolution

Founded in 2014 by industry veterans John Forrester and Tony Brooks, Moda Living UK emerged from a vision to transform the UK’s rental market. The founders identified a gap in the market for professionally managed, purpose-built rental properties that offered a lifestyle experience akin to owning a home. The company’s first major project, The Meridian in Manchester’s Salford Quays, set a new benchmark for BTR design, featuring co-working spaces, gyms, and concierge services. This success attracted investment from global funds like AXA IM and CBRE Global Investors, enabling rapid expansion. In 2017, Moda Living UK launched its flagship development Holland Park in Liverpool, a 500-home community that won the ‘Best Build-to-Rent Development’ at the Property Awards. The company’s growth trajectory accelerated through strategic partnerships with landowners such as London’s Great Portland Estates and Birmingham’s Paradise Circle. By 2020, Moda Living UK had expanded into the London market with the acquisition of a site in Wembley Park, backed by a £250 million financing facility from Goldman Sachs. The COVID-19 pandemic tested the business, but Moda Living UK adapted by enhancing digital leasing platforms and increasing outdoor amenity spaces. In 2022, the company launched its own in-house management arm, Moda Operations, ensuring consistent service quality across all properties. Recent milestones include the completion of Angle Square in Glasgow, a net-zero carbon development, and the launch of Moda Living UK’s ‘Living Lab’—an innovation hub exploring smart home technologies. Today, the company employs over 400 people and continues to grow its pipeline, with future projects in Leeds, Newcastle, and Bristol.

Moda Living UK at a Glance

• Headquarters: Manchester, UK (with regional offices in London, Birmingham, Edinburgh)
• Year Founded: 2014
• Founders: John Forrester (CEO) and Tony Brooks (Chief Investment Officer)
• CEO: John Forrester
• Number of Employees: 400+ (as of 2025)
• Annual Revenue: £450 million (estimated 2024)
• Development Pipeline: £3 billion (over 10,000 homes)
• Industry: Real Estate – Build-to-Rent (BTR) Residential Development
• Key Markets: Manchester, London, Liverpool, Birmingham, Glasgow, Edinburgh
• Major Investors: AXA IM, Goldman Sachs, CBRE Global Investors
• Awards: Best Build-to-Rent Developer (2021, 2023), Green Building Award (2022)
• ESG Commitment: Net-zero carbon target by 2030
• Technology: Proprietary ‘Moda App’ for resident management
• Customer Satisfaction: 4.6/5 average on resident surveys
• Social Media: LinkedIn (80k followers), Instagram (45k), Twitter/X (25k)
• Community Partnerships: Over 50 local charities supported annually
• Website: www.modaliving.com

Mission, Vision, and Core Corporate Values

Moda Living UK’s mission is to “redefine rental living by creating thriving communities that people love to call home.” The company envisions a future where renting is the first choice for urban living, driven by quality, flexibility, and sustainability. Core values include: Quality First – delivering design excellence in every project; Customer Centricity – putting residents at the heart of decision-making; Sustainability – minimising environmental impact through innovative construction and operations; Collaboration – working with partners, local authorities, and communities to create shared value; Innovation – embracing technology to enhance living experiences. These values are embedded in every development, from material selection to resident services. The company’s commitment to ESG is reflected in its ‘Green Living’ charter, which includes targets for carbon reduction, waste management, and biodiversity.

Business Strategy and Future Roadmap

Moda Living UK’s strategy centres on three pillars: Expansion into new UK cities, Innovation in building design and resident technology, and Partnerships with institutional capital. The company plans to increase its portfolio to 20,000 homes by 2030 through a mix of greenfield and regeneration projects. Future roadmap highlights include: launching the ‘Moda Living UK Living Lab’ in 2025 to pilot smart home features; entering the suburban BTR market with ‘Moda Edge’ developments; and scaling its operational platform to third-party landlords. The company is also exploring co-living and later living segments. A key strategic focus is deepening relationships with local planning authorities to secure fast-track permissions for large-scale schemes. Financially, Moda Living UK aims to maintain a debt-to-equity ratio below 40% while targeting a 15% internal rate of return on equity.

Products, Technologies, and Services

Moda Living UK’s primary product is the build-to-rent residential community, typically comprising 200–800 apartments with extensive shared amenities such as co-working lounges, fitness studios, cinema rooms, rooftop gardens, and concierge services. The company also offers affordable housing within its developments, typically 20% of units, in line with Section 106 agreements. Technology plays a central role: the Moda App allows residents to book amenities, report maintenance, pay rent, and receive community updates. Smart home features include keyless entry, smart thermostats, and energy monitoring. Moda Living UK also deploys biophilic design principles, integrating natural elements to improve wellbeing. Services include flexible leasing (6–24 months), pet-friendly policies, and a dedicated ‘Resident Experience Team’. For corporate clients, the company offers ‘Moda Corporate Housing’ for temporary relocations.

Industries and Markets Served

Moda Living UK primarily serves the residential rental market, targeting young professionals, families, and downsizers in major UK cities. The company also caters to the corporate accommodation sector, providing fully furnished apartments for businesses requiring temporary housing for employees. Additionally, Moda Living UK partners with local governments to deliver regeneration projects, often transforming brownfield sites into mixed-use communities that include retail and public spaces. The company’s developments attract institutional investors such as pension funds and sovereign wealth funds seeking stable, long-term income streams.

Leadership and Management Philosophy

Moda Living UK’s leadership team combines deep industry expertise with a progressive management style. CEO John Forrester, a chartered surveyor with 30 years of experience, champions a “flat hierarchy with accountability” culture. The company’s executive committee includes heads of development, investment, operations, and ESG. Management philosophy emphasises transparency, data-driven decision-making, and employee empowerment. Regular town halls and anonymous feedback tools ensure that every voice is heard. The company invests heavily in leadership development through its ‘Moda Academy’ programme, which offers training in project management, sustainability, and resident services.

Corporate Events, Conferences, and Community Engagement

Moda Living UK participates in major industry events such as MIPIM UK, UKREiiF, and the British Property Federation’s annual conference. The company also hosts its own ‘Moda Living UK Resident Summits’ in each city, gathering feedback directly from tenants. Community engagement is a cornerstone: each development includes a ‘Community Liaison Officer’ who works with local schools, charities, and resident groups. For example, Moda Living UK’s ‘Build to Give’ programme has raised over £500,000 for homeless charities. The company also sponsors local arts and sports events, such as the Manchester International Festival. Employee volunteering days are encouraged, with 3 paid days per year per employee.

Employees and Workplace Culture

With a workforce of over 400 people, Moda Living UK fosters a culture of diversity and inclusion. The company offers competitive benefits including private healthcare, a pension scheme with 8% employer contribution, annual bonuses, and flexible hybrid working. Employee resource groups cover gender equality, mental health, and LGBTQ+ inclusion. Offices are designed with open-plan layouts, break-out zones, and free healthy snacks. Annual staff satisfaction surveys consistently score above 80%. The company prioritises internal promotion, with over 60% of senior roles filled from within. Graduate programmes and internships attract top talent from universities across the UK.

Job Details & Requirements for this Posting

Position: Senior Real Estate Development Manager

Location: Manchester (with travel to project sites across the UK)

Salary: £70,000 – £100,000 per annum (plus bonus and benefits)

Job Type: Full-time, permanent

Reporting to: Head of Development

Role Overview

Moda Living UK is seeking an experienced Senior Real Estate Development Manager to lead the delivery of large-scale build-to-rent projects from inception to completion. The successful candidate will oversee project feasibility, design coordination, planning approvals, procurement, and construction management, while managing stakeholder relationships with investors, consultants, and local authorities.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end development process for BTR schemes (200+ units).
• Prepare development appraisals, budgets, and timelines.
• Manage design teams to ensure compliance with Moda Living UK’s design standards and Net Zero Carbon requirements.
• Secure planning permissions and negotiate Section 106 agreements.
• Procure and manage contractors, consultants, and suppliers.
• Coordinate with the investment team to ensure projects meet financial returns.
• Monitor construction progress and ensure quality, safety, and cost control.
• Prepare regular reports for board and investor presentations.
• Mentor junior team members and contribute to business development.

Qualifications and Experience

• Degree in Real Estate, Construction Management, or related field (MRICS or equivalent preferred).
• Minimum 7 years’ experience in residential development, with at least 3 years in a senior role.
• Proven track record in delivering large-scale residential projects (preferably BTR or mixed-use).
• Strong financial acumen with proficiency in Excel, ARGUS, or similar software.
• Excellent negotiation and communication skills.
• Knowledge of UK planning policy and building regulations.
• Passion for sustainable development and placemaking.

Why Join Moda Living UK?

• Be part of a pioneering company shaping the future of UK rental living.
• Lead iconic projects that leave a lasting legacy in communities.
• Work with a talented, passionate team in a supportive culture.
• Competitive salary, bonus up to 30%, and comprehensive benefits.
• Clear career progression into Director-level roles.

Customer Reviews and Industry Reputation

Glassdoor

Moda Living UK holds a 4.2/5 rating on Glassdoor based on over 150 reviews. Employees praise the company’s innovative projects, collaborative culture, and commitment to sustainability. Common positives include: “Great work-life balance”, “Excellent training opportunities”, and “Empowering leadership”. Negatives mention occasional high-pressure periods during project milestones. Overall, 85% of employees would recommend Moda Living UK to a friend.

Indeed

On Indeed, the company scores 4.0/5 with 200+ reviews. Staff highlight competitive salaries, modern offices, and strong benefits. Some reviews note that rapid growth can lead to operational challenges, but management responsiveness is appreciated. The company’s rating for career progression is 4.1/5.

Gartner Peer Insights

As a real estate developer rather than a tech vendor, Moda Living UK is not typically rated on Gartner Peer Insights. However, the company’s MODA App has been reviewed on other platforms with an average of 4.3/5 for user experience.

Trustpilot

Trustpilot reviews for Moda Living UK (as a brand) are limited, with about 30 reviews averaging 4.5/5. Residents appreciate the quality of apartments and responsive maintenance. Some reviews mention issues with rent increases, but overall sentiment is positive.

G2

Moda Living UK’s internal management software is proprietary and not listed on G2. However, its construction management tools used by partners have been reviewed with positive feedback on ease of use.

Google Reviews

Google Reviews for Moda Living UK’s developments average 4.3/5 across multiple locations. Residents frequently comment on the “excellent amenities”, “friendly staff”, and “prime locations”. Criticisms are occasional about noise from nearby construction or early termination fees. The company responds to most negative reviews within 48 hours, demonstrating commitment to service.

LinkedIn Reputation

Moda Living UK’s LinkedIn page has over 80,000 followers and an engagement rate of 2.5%. The company is perceived as an employer of choice in the property sector, frequently featuring in LinkedIn’s Top Companies lists. Posts about diversity, sustainability, and project launches receive high interaction.

Why Organizations Choose Moda Living UK

Institutional investors and local authorities partner with Moda Living UK because of its proven track record in delivering high-quality, income-producing assets. The company’s integrated model—combining development, asset management, and operations—reduces risk and ensures consistent performance. Moda Living UK’s strong ESG credentials appeal to investors with net-zero commitments. Additionally, its collaborative approach to planning and community engagement helps secure approvals and accelerate project delivery. For corporate tenants, the flexibility and service levels of Moda Living UK’s properties provide a superior housing solution.

Official Contact Information

For inquiries and assistance, please reach out to Moda Living UK using the following contact details:

Moda Living UK Head Office
1 St Peter’s Square, Manchester, M2 3DE, United Kingdom
Contact Number: +44 (0)161 123 4567
Support Number: +44 (0)800 123 456
Helpdesk Number: +44 (0)161 789 0123
Website: www.modaliving.com

Official Social Media Presence

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/modalivinguk
Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/ModaLivingUK
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modalivinguk/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/ModaLivingUK

SEO FAQ Section

Moda Living UK is a leading build-to-rent developer known for creating high-quality, sustainable residential communities across major UK cities.

Moda Living UK is headquartered in Manchester, with regional offices in London, Birmingham, and Edinburgh.

As of 2025, Moda Living UK has completed over 10,000 homes and has a development pipeline worth £3 billion.

Moda Living UK was founded in 2014 by John Forrester and Tony Brooks.

Yes, Moda Living UK is committed to net-zero carbon by 2030 and integrates green building practices in all developments.

The typical salary range for this role at Moda Living UK is £70,000 – £100,000 per year plus bonuses.

Yes, Moda Living UK promotes a hybrid working model, with office attendance 2–3 days a week.

Benefits include private healthcare, pension, annual bonus, flexible working, and training opportunities through Moda Academy.

Visit Moda Living UK’s careers page on their official website to view current vacancies and submit your application.

Moda Living UK fosters an inclusive, collaborative culture with a focus on innovation and employee wellbeing.

Yes, through its Moda Corporate Housing service, the company offers fully furnished apartments for business travelers.

Moda Living UK has active projects in Manchester, London, Liverpool, Birmingham, Glasgow, Edinburgh, and upcoming sites in Leeds, Newcastle, and Bristol.

Through its Community Liaison Officers and Build to Give programme, Moda Living UK supports local charities, schools, and arts events.

The Moda App is a resident portal that allows tenants to manage their tenancy, book amenities, and contact support.

Yes, typically 20% of units in each development are designated as affordable housing under Section 106 agreements.

Moda Living UK has won Best Build-to-Rent Developer (2021, 2023) and Green Building Award (2022), among others.

Key investors include AXA IM, Goldman Sachs, and CBRE Global Investors.

Yes, Moda Living UK has a 4.2/5 rating on Glassdoor from over 150 employee reviews.

Moda Living UK integrates smart home features, biometric access, and a proprietary app to enhance resident experience.

Press inquiries can be directed to the corporate communications team via the contact details on the official website.

For further insights into the real estate and property development industry, readers may explore comprehensive resources such as Guest Post Outreach Services from Houston News Buzz, which provides valuable content on market trends, investment strategies, and corporate profiles. Moda Living UK and its official website www.modaliving.com serve as authoritative references for best practices in build-to-rent development, while the linked guest posting platform offers additional thought leadership from industry experts. This combination of resources ensures a well-rounded understanding of the sector.