Head of Estates, Facilities and Compliance

Our client is an established network of independent schools operating within a for-profit education environment, who are striving to contribute and encourage young people to achieve their full potential and enable them to go on to enjoy the best prospects.This is a highly dynamic, passionate and ambitious organisation who have the expertise required to lead outstanding learning across their schools. The organisation is looking to recruit a **Head of Estates, Facilities and Compliance** to ensure their schools group is operating within a safe and legally compliant environment. This role is responsible for managing a variety of functions across the group (Health and Safety, Facilities,Compliance, Building Projects etc ) to the highest of standards, forging excellent relationships with both internal and external stakeholders.

**Key Responsibilities**:

- Ensure the Estates Teams (Caretakers, Facilities Managers, Site Managers) have the necessary skills, knowledge and capacity.
- Ensure all premises are safe and well-maintained with appropriate teaching facilities to develop a positive pupil experience.
- Develop an Estate Strategy for all premises to assist with long-term planning.
- Annually review emergency and business recovery plans in conjunction with the Business Mangers/Bursars, manage assets, including maximising income opportunities.
- Regularly visit all schools to Develop a strong understanding of each school's estates, property, maintenance, repairs, capital spending, compliance needs and priorities, through regular visits and communication.
- Ensure safety and security of pupils and staff.
- Ensure delivery of Planned and Preventative Maintenance programmes to budget.
- Engage with professionals for any major reinstatement works required.
- Monitor and manage the estates and maintenance budget(s), prioritising expenditure and ensuring value for money.
- Review third-party contracts (e.g. maintenance, facilities management, professional support & advice), and centrally procure services where cost reductions can be achieved.
- Prepare and advise on capital projects, identifying improvements leading to revenue savings (e.g. energy efficiency, reduced maintenance costs).
- Manage capital projects as required to specification, timescale and budget.
- Meet the requirements of any statutory bodies and the emergency services.
- Ensure all premises comply with their legal responsibilities, and regulatory compliance via preventative maintenance, statutory inspection, and testing, etc.
- Support as required on matters of insurance.
- Adhere to statutory guidance for schools.
- Have a strong grasp on the Checklist for The Independent School Standard Regulations
- Ensure familiarity with the 'The management of safeguarding'.

**Key Skills and Experience**:

- Proven operational and facilities management experience within the Education Sector
- Project management of major building works, including track record of sound budget management
- Managing operations teams and working effectively with staff and management at all levels
- Liaising effectively with building users, external consultants and contractors
- Contract management, and negotiation of best value services
- Basic building maintenance and providing facilities services within business premises
- Due diligence and mobilisation of new projects (e.g. buildings, systems)
- Health and Safety qualification(s) e.g. NEBOSH, IOSH or equivalent
- Extensive knowledge of relevant Health and Safety legislation/regulations with proven ability to manage and monitor
- Good level of IT skills (Microsoft Office products)
- Committed to keeping abreast of best practice and relevant legislation
- Familiarity with Independent Schools ISSR regulations is highly desirable