At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead maintenance and ceremonial operations across the iconic UK Parliamentary Estate.
- Company: Join a prestigious team at the heart of British democracy.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, responsibility allowance, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Engage with high-profile stakeholders and lead a motivated team.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on historic events and maintain a world-renowned heritage site.
- Qualifications: Degree in Construction Management or significant relevant experience required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
£70,967 - £83,926 per annum plus responsibility allowance and on call allowance. Parliament and the Palace of Westminster is one of the most iconic and significant estates portfolios in the world. It is home to one of the busiest parliaments, operating on a World Heritage site which attracts visitors from all over the globe, with more than a million people passing through its doors each year.
The Parliamentary Maintenance Services Team (PMST) are accountable for the maintenance of the UK Parliamentary Estate, consisting of buildings that range from the historic Palace of Westminster to the modern Portcullis House, located within a UNESCO World Heritage site, spanning four conservation areas.
The Head of Fabric Maintenance and Ceremonial Works is a senior leadership role within the Parliamentary Maintenance Services Team (PMST), responsible for overseeing ceremonial operations and the maintenance of building fabric across the Parliamentary Estate. Operating at A1 level, the role demands strategic oversight, technical expertise, and high-profile stakeholder engagement to ensure the safe and effective delivery of services.
This role will lead bicameral delivery of major ceremonial events (e.g. State Opening, VIP visits), engaging directly with senior stakeholders. You are also responsible for ensuring the effective delivery of building fabric operations across the Parliamentary Estate by leading accountable managers and aligning maintenance activities with HOC, HOL, and PMST strategic objectives.
The successful candidate will be actively working towards degree level in a relevant subject (Construction Management or Building Surveying etc.), or possess significant relevant experience in a senior management role in a similar client-side environment. You will possess extensive experience of managing a team, including setting objectives, monitoring standards, with the ability to motivate teams. Experience in construction management for events, ideally ceremonial and with temporary structures in addition to maintaining building fabric and furnishings; preferably within a listed building environment would be advantageous.
For a confidential discussion, please contact our retained advisors Michael Hewlett or Joe Glendon at The Management Recruitment Group on michael.hewlett@mrgglobal.com or joe.glendon@mrgglobal.com. Closing date for applications is Sunday 7th December 2025. The Management Recruitment Group have been exclusively retained for this appointment. All direct and third-party applications will be forwarded to them.
Head of Head of Building Fabric Maintenance and Ceremonial Works employer: HOUSE OF COMMONS
Working at the Palace of Westminster offers a unique opportunity to be part of a historic and prestigious institution, where your contributions directly impact the maintenance of one of the world's most iconic buildings. The Parliamentary Maintenance Services Team fosters a collaborative work culture that values professional growth, providing employees with opportunities to develop their skills in a dynamic environment while engaging with high-profile stakeholders. With competitive remuneration and additional allowances, this role not only promises a rewarding career but also the chance to be involved in significant ceremonial events that shape the UK's parliamentary landscape.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Head of Building Fabric Maintenance and Ceremonial Works
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your industry, especially those who work in similar roles or organisations. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Knowing the ins and outs of the Parliamentary Maintenance Services Team will help you stand out. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in their mission!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get a friend to do mock interviews with you. This will help you articulate your experience and skills confidently, especially when discussing your leadership and management expertise.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and ready to take on the challenge of maintaining such an iconic estate.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Head of Building Fabric Maintenance and Ceremonial Works
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Head of Building Fabric Maintenance and Ceremonial Works role. Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant projects you've managed, especially in ceremonial settings.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this senior leadership role. Be sure to mention your strategic oversight abilities and how you’ve engaged with high-profile stakeholders in the past.
Showcase Relevant Experience:When detailing your experience, focus on your background in construction management and team leadership. If you’ve worked in a listed building environment or managed events, make sure to include those examples to stand out!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of success. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at HOUSE OF COMMONS
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of building fabric maintenance and ceremonial works. Understand the specific challenges and requirements of maintaining a historic site like the Palace of Westminster. Familiarise yourself with recent projects or events that have taken place there to show your genuine interest.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As this role involves managing teams and engaging with high-profile stakeholders, be ready to discuss your leadership style. Prepare examples of how you've successfully motivated teams in the past, especially in high-pressure situations like major events or ceremonies.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Highlight your experience in stakeholder engagement during the interview. Be prepared to discuss how you would approach working with various parties, from senior management to external contractors, ensuring everyone is aligned with the strategic objectives of the Parliamentary Maintenance Services Team.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about the future projects for the PMST or how they measure success in this role. It shows you're not just interested in the position but also in contributing to the team's goals.
