VP Real Estate

Darktrace is a global leader in AI-driven cybersecurity, helping organizations stay ahead of evolving threats every day.

Darktrace was built on a genuinely differentiated idea: that Adaptive AI could detect and respond to novel, real-time cyber threats. That approach matters more than ever in the era of AI.  Today, our customers depend on us to stay ahead.

At Darktrace, we are energized by that responsibility.  We work across teams and rally around a shared goal. We own outcomes end to end - step in, step up and see things through without waiting to be asked.   We make decisions with urgency, say the hard thing, and hold each other to high standards with care and directness. We move first and learn fast anticipating where our customers are going next, continuously challenging ourselves.  

We invest in the skills, learning and opportunities that help people deliver at the level their roles demand, and reward the aptitude and curiosity to grow beyond them. 

Our Values: Own It | Win as One | Raise Our Bar | Move First. Learn Fast 

Job Description:

The VP, Real Estate is responsible for the strategy, management, and performance of Darktrace's corporate real estate portfolio, particularly during a period of evolution, where some offices may close/new ones open etc. You will balance cost, flexibility, and employee experience, aligning the portfolio with our hybrid work model and growth plans. You will manage external brokers, project managers, and facilities partners.

Key Responsibilities

• Portfolio strategy: Develop and execute a multi-year real estate strategy aligned with headcount forecasts, hybrid working policy, and financial targets.

• Lease administration and transactions: Lead site selection, negotiation, renewal, restructuring, and disposal of leases, working with brokers and legal counsel to secure favorable terms.

• Financial management: Own the real estate budget and forecast. Drive cost savings through consolidation, sublease, and lease-term optimization. Partner with Finance on lease accounting (ASC 842) and capital planning.

• Workplace and project delivery: Oversee design, fit-out, and relocation projects on time and on budget, delivering inclusive, secure, brand-aligned workspaces.

• Space utilization and data: Use occupancy and utilization data to inform space decisions, and report portfolio KPIs to executive leadership.

• Security and compliance: Work with Security, IT, and Legal to ensure facilities meet physical security, health and safety, ADA, and local regulatory requirements.

• Facilities and vendor management: Manage integrated facilities management (IFM) providers, service levels, and contracts across the portfolio.

• Sustainability: Embed ESG and sustainability goals, including energy efficiency and green building standards, into portfolio decisions.

Requirements

• Multiple years of corporate real estate experience

• Proven track record in lease negotiation, portfolio optimization, and large-scale workplace projects.

• Strong financial acumen, with experience in budgeting, lease accounting, and business case development.

• Experience with a technology, SaaS, or high-growth company, ideally in hybrid-work environments.

• Experience managing brokers, IFM providers, architects, and contractors.

• Excellent stakeholder management, communication, and negotiation skills at executive level.

As a growing business strengthening its governance and controls, this role plays a part in supporting high standards of integrity and accountability. 

Darktrace is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran or military status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Darktrace is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with applicable laws. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application or interview process, please contact your Talent Partner.