Head of Estates

Our students come from all walks of life and so do we. We hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds, not just because it’s the right thing to do, but because it makes our organisation stronger. Why not join our dedicated team as Head of Estates?

Job Title

Head of Estates

Ref No.

ME2425095

Department

Estates

Reporting to

Deputy Principal – Finance and Corporate Affairs

Responsible for

Maintenance and Project Manager

Deputy Head of Estates

Health & Safety Officer

Senior Buildings Service Engineer

Services Coordinator

Location

Northampton, Booth Lane Campus

Salary

In the range of £62,317 - £67,511 per annum (Dependent on skills, experience and qualifications)

Hours

37 hours per week, 52 Weeks per year

Contract Type

Permanent

Role Purpose

To provide professional leadership for the Estates function at Northampton College, overseeing all aspects of estates and facilities management. The responsibilities will encompass day-to-day oversight of premises, maintenance, and security teams; optimising facilities and building systems; and managing capital projects.

In collaboration with the Deputy Principal of Finance and Corporate Affairs, to lead the strategic planning of the College estate. To drive the highest standards of operational practice and conduct, working collaboratively with college managers to support the College's priorities, ensure a safe and secure learning environment, enhance the student experience, and deliver value for money.

To work collaboratively with cross-college managers to make effective contributions to the work of the College and the effective implementation of corporate, strategic, and operational priorities.  

Main Duties and Responsibilities

1. To lead and manage the Estates Teams with integrity, and in accordance with relevant College policies, to ensure that staff are motivated and produce good results through motivational performance management. To lead on the selection of appropriate talent to meet student needs. To support induction training and probation processes and procedures. To ensure that performance management of all staff in the area is regularly monitored and reviewed, and staff are appropriately supported to achieve high levels of performance against agreed College indicators and targets.
2.  To support the Principal and Deputy Principal of Finance and Corporate Affairs in the development and implementation of the College’s multi-year Estates Strategy ensuring it aligns with the College's strategic objectives. You will also ensure that the Estate Team’s annual work plan and priorities support the Estates Strategy and the College’s strategic goals.
3. To oversee the day-to-day operations of all College sites, ensuring operational excellence and the highest standards of customer service for our staff, students and visitors. You will develop, and ensure compliance with, best practice policies and procedures, fostering a culture of excellence within the Estates teams.
4.  To ensure value for money in the operating, maintaining and investing in the college estate. You will be responsible for developing and managing realistic budgets and ensuring that these budgets are met through the highest standards of financial management. You will ensure that all financial decisions are made with a focus on long-term sustainability and efficiency.
5. To support the Deputy Principal Finance and Corporate Affairs to develop and manage capital and other projects from design to delivery, ensuring compliance with timescales, budgets, Health & Safety standards, and legislation. This includes supporting grant applications and meeting their requirements. You will prepare and present project information to college governors, managers, and regulatory authorities, ensuring that projects align with the College's strategic objectives and achieve value for money.
6.  To manage the procurement and contract management of relevant utilities, services and materials, including outsourced contract services, ensuring all contracts and services meet defined quality standards. You will take a commercial approach whilst meeting expectations for the proper use of public money and adhering to college policies and regulations.
7.  To lead Estates-related sustainability initiatives, exploring and implementing cost-effective options to help the College works towards net zero. You will develop and promote sustainability policies and practices, ensuring compliance with relevant sustainability standards and regulations, and lead on the College’s carbon reporting.
8.  To support the Principal effectively discharge their responsibilities for Health and Safety, acting as expert advisor to the Principal and Deputy Principal of Finance and Corporate Affairs and leading health and safety initiatives across the College. This includes maintaining the highest standards of health and safety within the Estates teams, developing and implementing robust health and safety policies, and promoting a culture of safety awareness among staff and students.
9.  To help ensure that the College is a safe and secure environment through oversight of the College’s security arrangements, and alongside the College’s Safeguarding Team, ensure that all security incidents are effectively and appropriately reviewed, and all contractors adhere to safeguarding protocols.
10.  To develop and maintain contingency arrangements for premises-related emergencies and business continuity requirements in collaboration with the College Management Team.
11.  To prepare standard or ad-hoc reports using system facilities or Microsoft Office tools, particularly regarding space usage.
12.  To carry out examination invigilation duties as required.