Director of Estates

Manchester Metropolitan University is a dynamic institution, dedicated to providing outstanding education and conducting impactful research. Located in the heart of Manchester, the university is a hub of innovation and creativity, committed to nurturing talent and fostering a culture of excellence, inclusivity, and sustainability.

With over 5,100 staff members across the university, and around 41,000 students, we are a big institution with even bigger ambitions. We are proud to be at the heart of one of Europe's most diverse and vibrant cities, and with shared traditions of industry, innovation and inclusivity, our impact reaches around the globe.

Manchester Met is seeking an experienced and visionary Director of Estates to join the Senior Leadership Team. Reporting to the Chief Property Officer of Estates, Facilities and Campus Development (EFCD), you will be crucial in shaping and implementing their Estates Strategy, which includes campus development, property and space management, and estate operational functions. Your strategic planning will support the University's service and growth aspirations, implementing the Estates Masterplan, and achieving revenue targets. Building strong, productive relationships with senior stakeholders, academics, and partners is essential.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement EFCD strategies.
• Oversee estates development, property management, and operational functions.
• Ensure timely, budget-compliant delivery of projects.
• Develop financial plans and ensure efficient service operations within budget.
• Oversee contract management and promote productivity improvements.
• Ensure services meet stakeholder needs through continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with senior colleagues, committees, and external partners.
• Represent the University externally, enhancing student experience and employability.
• Lead and manage staff for high performance and continuous improvement.
• Promote innovation and creativity.
• Review service performance against best practices.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Manage strategic and operational risks and develop continuity plans.

Person Specification

Essential Criteria:

• Strong leadership and personal skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strategic thinking and innovative problem-solving abilities.
• High levels of probity, diplomacy, confidentiality, and commercial acumen.
• Organisational development skills for leading high-performing teams.
• Strong project management skills, including external negotiations.
• Ability to network, collaborate, and influence stakeholders.
• Extensive knowledge of higher education estates sector legislation and best practices.
• Commercial acumen for managing significant budgets and income streams.
• Strong working knowledge of risk and health and safety management.
• Degree level education or equivalent qualification in an appropriate discipline.
• Evidence of continuing professional development.

Desirable Criteria:

• Higher degree or postgraduate diploma.
• Membership in a relevant professional body (e.g., CIOB, RICS).
• Significant track record in strategic leadership within large, complex organisations.
• Evidence of a customer-service ethos and commitment to equal opportunities.
• Willingness to engage in ongoing professional development.

If you are a strategic leader with a passion for shaping the future of higher education estates and are ready to make a significant impact at Manchester Metropolitan University, we would love to hear from you.

Further information and how to apply.

Please do not apply for this vacancy via the university website. All applications should be directed to our retained advisors, Berwick Partners via the link below.

Please submit your application, including a detailed CV and cover letter, by visiting the link to our executive search partner, Berwick Partners - www.berwickpartners.co.uk/90663

Interview Date - Wednesday 16 October 2024

Manchester Metropolitan University is committed to equality and diversity, and welcome applications from all sections of the community.