WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR:

• A degree and/or professional qualification in a Construction or Property-related discipline, with extensive experience in Facilities Management or Construction at a senior level.
• Proven leadership experience in delivering large-scale Maintenance Programmes, Compliance Activities, and Capital Projects.
• In-depth knowledge of Statutory Compliance requirements, Building regulations, Health and Safety legislation, and Environmental Sustainability.
• Strong experience in managing large teams across diverse disciplines and delivering high-quality customer-focused services.
• Excellent communication, influencing, and negotiation skills, with the ability to engage and collaborate effectively with senior leadership, staff, and external partners.
• A strategic mindset with the ability to innovate, drive change, and align operational priorities with the broader goals of the University.
• Experience in managing complex budgets and forecasting financial resources effectively.
• A commitment to professional development, both for yourself and your team, and a drive for excellence in all that you do.

ABOUT THE ROLE:

Are you a forward thinking and strategic leader in Facilities, Maintenance, and Compliance with a passion for innovation and operational excellence?
We’re on the lookout for an experienced Associate Director to join our Estates and Facilities team at The University of Manchester. This senior role is an exciting opportunity to take responsibility for the strategic direction, leadership, and management of our Facilities Maintenance and Compliance teams, ensuring that our campus and wider estate, meets and exceeds the needs of both our staff and students, whilst also contributing to the University’s overall ambitions.
As a key member of the Estates Leadership Team, you will play a vital role in shaping the future of the University’s estate, ensuring that our Property Maintenance strategies, Compliance efforts, and Energy Management practices are always aligned with the highest industry standards.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead and manage FMC teams, including professional, technical, and administrative staff, ensuring high performance, effective motivation, and continuous professional development.
• Develop, implement, and monitor strategic plans for Property Maintenance, Statutory Compliance, Energy Management, and Infrastructure capacity.
• Ensure that all Facilities and Services meet statutory requirements and best practice standards, including Fire Safety, Asbestos Management, Water Systems, gas safety, electrical installations, and HVAC.
• Oversee the management of long-term maintenance programmes, ensuring that all activities are completed within budget, on time, and to the required standards.
• Provide leadership guidance on energy consumption, sustainability, and compliance with environmental regulations, driving initiatives to reduce energy costs and improve the University’s environmental impact.
• Manage large, complex budgets and collaborate with University Finance teams to ensure financial efficiency, compliance, and budget accuracy.
• Develop and maintain effective relationships with key stakeholders, both internal and external, ensuring the needs of students, staff, and visitors are met.
• Lead the recruitment, development, and performance management of staff, ensuring a customer-focused, high-performing team with a positive and supportive working culture.
• Monitor and report on key performance indicators and service level agreements, driving improvements where necessary.
• Represent the University at relevant external meetings, committees, and working groups, ensuring that The University of Manchester’s interests are always represented.