At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic direction for HMCTS estate and optimise performance through data-driven decisions.
- Company: Join Her Majesty’s Courts and Tribunals Service, a key player in the justice system.
- Benefits: Enjoy a permanent role with opportunities for professional growth and a diverse workplace.
- Other info: Be part of a transformative journey in a supportive and inclusive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of justice services and champion innovation.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership skills and experience in strategic planning and performance management.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
Contract: Permanent
Closing Date: 23:55 on Sunday 7th June 2026
About Us
Her Majesty’s Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS) is an executive agency of the Ministry of Justice, working in partnership with the Lord Chancellor, the Lord Chief Justice, and the Senior President of Tribunals. We are responsible for the operation of the courts and tribunals system, providing the buildings, technology, and support that enable the judiciary, magistrates, and tribunal members to carry out their vital work independently. Our estate and services span England, Wales, and tribunals across the United Kingdom for which the Lord Chancellor is accountable. Our purpose is clear: to deliver an efficient, effective justice system that upholds the rule of law and ensures access to justice for all. By supporting an independent judiciary and modernising the way justice is delivered, we aim to provide services that are accessible, fair, and resilient for the future.
The Role
The Deputy Director – Estates Planning, Strategy and Performance is a senior leadership role within the HMCTS Property Directorate, responsible for shaping the long-term development and strategic direction of one of government’s most complex operational estates. Working closely with the Property Director and the Director of Strategy, Analysis and Change, the postholder will lead the delivery of a cohesive, data-driven Estate Strategy that reflects HMCTS’s changing needs over the Spending Review period and beyond. They will provide strategic leadership across estate capacity, investment, utilisation, and optimisation – underpinned by robust data, insight, and evidence. The role offers a significant opportunity to influence the future of the HMCTS estate.
The postholder will ensure that investment decisions deliver maximum value for money, embed continuous improvement, and enable modern, accessible justice services – including digital and remote delivery. They will oversee estate performance through benchmarking and analytics, stabilising and consolidating operations where appropriate, reducing risk, and ensuring safe, reliable, and sustainable service delivery. A core part of the role is responsibility for 13 Private Finance Initiative (PFI) court buildings. The postholder will ensure these assets operate efficiently, meet contractual obligations, and align with HMCTS objectives. As contracts approach expiry, they will lead the complex transition of assets and services back to HMCTS, managing legal, commercial, and operational risks to safeguard continuity and long-term value.
This is a pivotal leadership role at a time of transformation. The successful candidate will provide visible strategic direction, champion innovation and sustainability, and foster an inclusive, high‑performing culture. Their work will directly support HMCTS’s vision of a more efficient and effective justice system, delivering real public value and access to justice for all.
We encourage applications from people from all backgrounds and aim to have a workforce that represents the wider society that we serve. We pride ourselves on being an employer of choice. We champion diversity, inclusion and wellbeing and aim to create a workplace where everyone feels valued and a sense of belonging.
Deputy Director – Estates Planning, Strategy and Performance employer: HM Courts & Tribunals Service (HMCTS)
Her Majesty’s Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS) is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to shape the future of the justice system in a dynamic and inclusive environment. With a strong commitment to diversity, employee wellbeing, and professional growth, HMCTS fosters a culture where every team member can thrive while contributing to meaningful public service. Located across England and Wales, employees benefit from a collaborative atmosphere that values innovation and strategic thinking, ensuring that their work has a lasting impact on society.
Contact Details:
HM Courts & Tribunals Service (HMCTS) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Director – Estates Planning, Strategy and Performance
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, attend industry events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation and its values. Understand their mission and how your skills align with their goals. We want you to walk into that interview room feeling confident and ready to impress!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or family to get comfortable with common questions. We believe that the more you practice, the more natural you'll feel when it’s time to shine in front of the real interviewers.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A simple thank-you email can go a long way in showing your appreciation and keeping you top of mind. We’re all about making those connections last, so let’s keep the conversation going!
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Director – Estates Planning, Strategy and Performance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Deputy Director role. Highlight your experience in estates planning and strategy, and how it aligns with HMCTS's goals.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:This is a senior leadership position, so don’t hold back on showcasing your leadership experience. Share examples of how you've led teams or projects, especially in complex environments like estates management.
Be Data-Driven:Since the role involves a lot of data analysis and performance metrics, include any relevant experience you have with data-driven decision-making. Show us how you've used data to drive improvements in past roles.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, and we can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at HM Courts & Tribunals Service (HMCTS)
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you thoroughly understand HMCTS's mission and the specific responsibilities of the Deputy Director role. Familiarise yourself with the current estate strategy, recent developments in the justice system, and how data-driven decisions are made. This will show your genuine interest and preparedness.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your strategic leadership experience, particularly in managing complex estates or projects. Be ready to discuss how you've driven innovation and continuous improvement in previous roles, as this is crucial for the position.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
This role involves working closely with various stakeholders. Be prepared to talk about your experience in fostering collaboration across teams and departments. Highlight any successful partnerships you've built and how they contributed to achieving organisational goals.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, ask questions that demonstrate your understanding of the challenges facing HMCTS. Inquire about their vision for the future of the estate and how they plan to integrate sustainability into their strategies. This shows you're not just interested in the role, but also in the organisation's long-term goals.
