Head of Operational Central Services

at  The Arch Company

ABOUT US

The Arch Company is the largest provider of commercial business space for small to medium-sized businesses in the UK. We have over 5,000 properties comprised of unique spaces, often set in the heart of communities across England and Wales. Most of our properties are related to our railway heritage, which means they are concentrated in the key urban areas, close to major transport links and potential customers.
Our portfolio is full of variety, from bakeries to breweries, mechanics and metalworks, restaurants, retailers and more. We are proud to be the landlord to a diverse, passionate group of small business owners, entrepreneurs and community organisations across England and Wales. The Arch Company shareholders are TT Group and Blackstone Property Partners.
We are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace, so if you are interested in this job but do not meet every aspect of the job description, we would still encourage you to apply. You might be the ideal candidate for this role, or other positions.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Lead the strategic development of the Central Services function, ensuring it meets both current and future demands.
• Ensure FM service delivery compliance with all statutory and legislative obligations, ensuring ArchCo meets its legal and operational requirements.
• Own and oversee FM policies and procedures, ensuring they are well-documented, delivered effectively, and updated regularly as needed.
• Own and manage the strategic supply chain plan, focusing on delivering best practices, commercial efficiency, and operational effectiveness.
• Own the Operation Team’s QMS, ensuring the team have access to up to date, accurate process, policy and guidance documents
• Develop, embed, and maintain an effective programme management system to support the efficient delivery of all FM processes, including contractor performance, property inspections, and the management of vacant properties.
• Create and maintain internal reporting systems that provide relevant and timely data. Reporting should support the Operations function in managing service delivery, assuring the business of performance, and evaluating the supply chain.
• Contribute to organisational change and business improvement initiatives, developing and implementing strategies that enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of central services, including through improved technology use.
• Oversee the annual budget planning process and act as the owner of the Central Services budget, ensuring fiscal responsibility and alignment with operational needs.
• Own the Technical roadmap for the Operations team, ensuring that systems are prioritized and coordinated with appropriate Business Management Engagement (BME).

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND EXPERIENCE

• Proven experience in leading central services functions and developing strategic plans to meet current and future needs.
• Expertise in supply chain management and implementing efficient programme management systems for FM processes.
• Strong ability to develop reporting solutions that support performance improvement and operational effectiveness.
• In-depth knowledge of statutory compliance and experience in maintaining up-to-date FM policies and procedures.
• Experience in driving organisational change and improving central services through the use of technology.
• Solid skills in budget planning and managing financial responsibilities for central services.
• Experience of managing and leading teams.

The FM Operations Team is going through an exciting transformation programme which has seen significant change in both structure and process as we mature our delivery model and we are now increasing our leadership team by recruiting a Head of Central Services to focus on the strategic development of our central operating model.
The Head of Operational Central Services role is responsible for the strategic development and delivery of our operational central services, statutory compliance of our Estate and the programme management of our FM activity. Through the leadership and management of a highly motivated team of staff, you will ensure the sound day to day running of the Operational function, working alongside the Head of FM Services, to shape and implement the FM Operating model.