Head of Estates

Are you an experienced estates professional looking for a leadership role in a prestigious Cambridge college? Robinson College is seeking a highly skilled and strategic Head of Estates to oversee the management, development, and sustainability of our estate. This is an exciting new post with the opportunity to play a key role in shaping the College's future while maintaining its unique and historic environment.
This is a full time role, working on site for 37 hours per week.

About the Role

As the Head of Estates, you will be responsible for the strategic planning and operational management of the College's buildings, grounds, and facilities. You will ensure the estate is safe, sustainable, and well-maintained, providing an outstanding environment for students, staff, and visitors. Reporting to the Finance Bursar, you will lead a multidisciplinary team including the Project Manager (Major Projects), Maintenance Manager, Head Gardener, and Compliance Coordinator.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Developing and implementing a long-term Estates Strategy aligned with the College’s goals.
• Managing capital projects and major refurbishments, ensuring delivery on time, within budget, and to the highest standards.
• Overseeing planned and reactive maintenance of College buildings and facilities.
• Ensuring full compliance with health and safety, building regulations, and environmental sustainability requirements.
• Managing budgets effectively and ensuring financial oversight of capital and operational expenditure.
• Leading a team of estates professionals, fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration.
• Overseeing the maintenance of the College’s beautiful gardens and grounds.
• Driving the College’s sustainability agenda, including energy efficiency and environmental initiatives.
• Acting as the key contact for regulatory bodies, auditors, and stakeholders.

About You

To be successful in this role, you will have proven experience in estates management, ideally within higher education, heritage, or a similar environment including working with listed buildings and conservation projects. 
You will display strong leadership and team management skills with experience of multi-disciplinary teams. Experience in budget management, project planning, and contractor coordination is essential, along with comprehensive knowledge of health and safety legislation, building regulations, and sustainability practices evidenced by relevant professional qualifications (such as RICS, IWFM, or an equivalent FM qualification). 
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with stakeholders at all levels and strong IT skills, including experience using spreadsheets and planned maintenance systems are also essential.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary of £55,000 - £60,000 per annum, depending on experience.
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing with length of service (up to an additional 5 days).
• Free lunch when the kitchens are open.
• A supportive and collaborative working environment within one of Cambridge’s renowned colleges.

How to Apply

If you are a strategic leader with a passion for estates management and sustainability, we would love to hear from you.

To apply, please submit your CV and a covering letter, along with a completed short application form, detailing how your skills and experience align with the role, via the 'Apply' button.

Closing date for applications: Monday 17 February 
Interview date: Tuesday 25 February

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