Head of Estates

Head of Estates

Limekilns Full-Time 54800 - 73000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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Fife College

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead and manage the College Estates Infrastructure across multiple campuses.
  • Company: Fife College is a leading institution in Scotland, serving over 20,000 students.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, opportunity to impact local community, and work on innovative projects.
  • Why this job: Join a dynamic team and drive forward sustainable infrastructure initiatives.
  • Qualifications: Degree level education or equivalent experience, with strong project management skills.
  • Other info: Exciting chance to enhance the College's Estate Strategy and promote low carbon technologies.

The predicted salary is between 54800 - 73000 £ per year.

Salary: £64,887 per annum

Location: Fife

About Us

Fife College is one of the largest colleges of higher and further education in Scotland, home to over 20,000 students and 1,000 staff. Situated across 5 campuses throughout Fife, including Dunfermline, Kirkcaldy, Glenrothes, Levenmouth and Rosyth, Fife College offers options for everyone, from starter courses and apprenticeships, through to HNC/ HND and degree pathways. Due to our strong links with local industries, we offer one of the biggest Modern Apprenticeship programmes across the Scottish college network, with around 400 places on offer.

The Role

We are seeking a strategic forward-thinking leader to join our team in managing the College Estates Infrastructure efficiently and effectively, assuming overall responsibility across all campuses for the delivery of our Estate Strategy including investment in our physical infrastructure. Working closely with the Assistant Principal - Infrastructure and Experience, you will provide vision, leadership and motivational management to specialist teams that will ensure effective delivery of our Estate Strategy.

A key part of the role will be to manage the Facilities Management, Health & Safety and Environment Management functions of the College. As Head of Estates, it is essential to promote the profile of all areas by way of a pro-active, challenging and innovative approach, working with managers, employees and students.

Your key responsibilities will include providing leadership and direction for the enhancement of the Estates Strategy. Working with the Assistant Principal, you will explore and take forward strategic projects and relevant business cases for infrastructure investment, specifically in low carbon technologies in accordance with Scottish Government targets. You will oversee and provide overall management for the maintenance activities for the College Estate, the corporate fleet of vehicles and infrastructure. Responsibility for overseeing contracts, paying close attention to penalty clauses and breaches ensuring contract operates within the parameters of the contract. Oversee any legal or required statistical returns for SFC and other external organisations as required.

Qualifications and Experience - what we’re looking for:

  • Educated to degree level or with demonstrable relevant professional experience at SCQF level 9 or above.
  • Proven record of evaluative ability, to recognise areas for improvement and plan for excellence.
  • Significant project management experience.
  • Proven effective experience in an Estates managerial role.
  • Proven record of effective budget management achieving financial targets and effective use of resources.
  • Excellent leadership and communication skills.

This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact on the College and its community. If you are a forward-thinking leader and passionate about driving forward innovative projects, we’d love to hear from you.

Contact

Eden Scott is retained by Fife College. Please submit your CV and covering letter online. For a confidential discussion and to hear more about the opportunity, then please contact Iain Atkinson on 07714 124 033. Closing date for applications is 5.00pm on Monday 9th June 2025.

Fife College

Contact Detail:

Fife College Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Head of Estates

✨Tip Number 1

Research Fife College's current Estates Strategy and any recent projects they've undertaken. This will help you understand their priorities and demonstrate your knowledge during discussions.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with professionals in the education sector, particularly those involved in estates management. Engaging with them can provide insights into the role and may even lead to referrals.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss your experience with low carbon technologies and how you've implemented sustainable practices in previous roles. This aligns with the college's focus on meeting Scottish Government targets.

✨Tip Number 4

Be ready to showcase your leadership style and how you motivate teams. Consider examples where you've successfully led projects or initiatives that required collaboration across different departments.

We think you need these skills to ace Head of Estates

Strategic Leadership
Project Management
Budget Management
Facilities Management
Health & Safety Management
Environmental Management
Contract Management
Evaluative Skills
Communication Skills
Team Management
Innovative Thinking
Stakeholder Engagement
Knowledge of Low Carbon Technologies
Problem-Solving Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and qualifications required for the Head of Estates position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with these requirements.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your leadership skills and project management experience. Use specific examples from your past roles to demonstrate your ability to enhance estate strategies and manage facilities effectively.

Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV, emphasise your experience in estates management, budget management, and any relevant qualifications. Make sure to include metrics or achievements that illustrate your success in previous roles.

Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.

How to prepare for a job interview at Fife College

✨Research Fife College

Before the interview, take some time to learn about Fife College's mission, values, and recent developments. Understanding their strategic goals, especially regarding their Estates Strategy, will help you align your answers with their vision.

✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills

As a Head of Estates, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership capabilities. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led teams, managed projects, or implemented innovative solutions in an estates or facilities management context.

✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions

Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle challenges. Think of scenarios related to budget management, project delivery, or health and safety issues, and be ready to discuss how you would approach these situations.

✨Discuss Sustainability Initiatives

Given the emphasis on low carbon technologies and sustainability in the job description, be prepared to discuss your experience with environmentally friendly practices and how you can contribute to Fife College's goals in this area.

Head of Estates
Fife College
Location: Limekilns
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