Job Description
Head of Estates & Sustainability
Salary commensurate with the seniority of the role + benefits
Based out of the Paisley Campus with travel across their estate
Morgan Philips Executive Search are partnering with UWS (University of the West of Scotland), in support of their search for an experienced Head of Estates.
This is an exciting time for the University having recently appointed a new Principal and Vice Chancellor in Professor James Miller.
Job Summary:
The Head of Estates & Sustainability has overall responsibility for the work of the Estates team and the development, condition and functional operation of the University’s campuses as well as being the lead Health & Safety Officer. Together with the Director of Estates & Campus Services, the Head of Campus Services, and the Head of Projects, the Head of Estates & Sustainability is a key member of the senior team responsible for the University’s non-academic operations. This role requires extensive experience of managing estates across a multi-campus portfolio and the post holder will be a proven leader and manager of teams and a collaborative senior colleague, who would be working for the University at an exciting time in the development of the UWS physical estate.
The post holder will provide strategic leadership, drive and vision for the planning, development and implementation of the UWS Estates and property maintenance strategy, comprising the following functional services delivery areas:
1. All estates and property related functions, at both strategic and operational levels, comprising condition, planned, reactive and cyclical maintenance activities for both building fabric and M&E systems.
2. Sustainability, Net Zero Carbon and Energy Efficiency to deliver on the UWS commitment to achieve Net Zero by 2040
3. Health & Safety - delivering an efficient and effective service to all areas of UWS providing strategic and dynamic leadership for safety management covering all aspects of stakeholder health, safety, and environmental issues in support of the University’s strategic objectives.
The key purpose of the role is to ensure fit with the University’s strategic aim to deliver excellence in the delivery of all estates and campus services functions ensuring an outstanding student experience across all its activities (estates, facilities management, health & safety and sustainability / environmental)
The post holder will be expected to take ownership of the physical infrastructure of the UWS estate to ensure it is well maintained, compliant and meets all legislative and statutory requirements to underpin an excellent student learning experience. They will oversee development and implementation of effective delivery plans for the key business objectives agreed by the Director of Estates & Campus Services that contribute to the development and implementation of the University’s Strategic Plan.
Person Specification:
Education/Qualifications/Training
Essential
A relevant degree and postgraduate qualification
Professional qualification relevant to the area of work, gained through either a postgraduate qualification or through professional membership of a related body (e.g. RICS; RIAS; or BIFM)
Desirable
Professional qualification or membership (or equivalent experience) relevant to Health & Safety, gained through either a postgraduate qualification, or through professional membership of a related body
Experience
Essential
Professional experience in strategic estates management, with in depth knowledge of planning and buildings-related regulations, compliance and legislation.
Experience in the development and implementation of a wide and diverse range of property maintenance, facilities management, and operational functions.
Professional experience in Health & Safety measures across a large multi campus facility, including experience in implementing effective Health and Safety management frameworks and methodologies
Experience of operating with a high degree of credibility at a senior level within an organisation
Evidence of successful management of diverse staff groups including professional, technical and facilities services staff.
Experience of Financial accountability at a senior level in managing budgets and resources
Evidence of the ability to successfully meet challenging targets and planned objectives
Evidence of devising, developing, and delivering operational plans
Possess broad administrative experience including leading a significant business unit
Desirable
Experience in supporting the development and implementation of large capital development programmes, with specific experience of complex M&E project management, to assist with whole life costings, life cycle maintenance and standards compliance etc.
Experience of change management during a challenging and changing environment
Skills
Essential
Demonstrable strategic leadership and project management skills.
Excellent management and leadership skills with a proven capacity to engage and motivate staff as well as a proven aptitude in enabling and management of performance
Exceptional written and oral communication skills, with excellent presentation skills and demonstrable ability to present compelling and clear arguments in achieving UWS objectives
Strong negotiating and influencing skills and ability to apply these skills at all levels of the organisation, and with relevant external bodies, to shape future policy and processes.
Committed to the highest standards of student experience and building user care.
- Strong IT skills and competency in the use of Microsoft software packages, as well as Project Management programmes and Gantt charts.
Capable of effectively managing multiple projects and functioning productively as a member of a multi-disciplinary team.
Desirable
Full, current driving licence
Knowledge and Understanding
Essential
Developed knowledge of Government policies and procedures for public sector
Ability to understand and interpret University policies, procedures and working practices in all areas of the University’s business and any issues which may influence the development of longer-term university strategies.
An in-depth and comprehensive understanding of regulatory and statutory compliance requirements in relation to the ownership and management of property, as the post holder will be accountable and liable from the outcome of professional judgement and decisions.
An in-depth knowledge of Health and Safety legislation
Desirable
Experience of working within the Higher Education / Further Education / NHS (or similar) complex environment.
Personal Attributes:
Essential
- Able to think strategically at a business level.
Strong commitment to the goals and vision of the University.
Proactive, customer focused with the ability to identify and develop advantageous partnership and networking opportunities.
Personal dynamism, demonstrating drive, innovation and initiative.
Ability to work and respond within challenging timeframes, ensuring outcomes are effectively delivered.
Commitment to personal and professional development.
Evidence of the aptitude to develop effective internal and external collaborative relationships.
For more information please contact Bill Guthrie on 07931 568958 or email [email protected]
Or to apply, please email [email protected] with a copy of your cv and a covering letter explaining why you feel your experience is a strong fit for this opportunity.
Please note you will receive an automated response advising you that we have received your CV.
Morgan Philips Group is a global talent solutions business that disrupts conventional thinking in executive search, recruitment and talent consulting. We operate in over 18 markets in Europe, North & South America, Asia, and the Middle East & Africa. We understand that the future is digital and social, so we embrace the latest technology, including video ads and CVs, as well as social recruiting. Our innovative services are tailored to the new world of work yet we do not lose sight of the fact that employees be they existing and potential are ultimately human beings.
We are committed to ensuring that all job applicants are treated equally, without discrimination because of gender, sexual orientation, marital or civil partner status, gender reassignment, race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief, disability or age.
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