IFM Operations Director (Site Lead)

Based onsite at Rolls-Royce Raynesway, Derby, we are seeking a dynamic and visionary leader who excels at building high-performing teams while maintaining a people-focused approach to management. The ideal candidate will demonstrate exceptional relationship-building skills, fostering strong and lasting partnerships with clients and associated stakeholders. This role requires a strategic thinker who can create and align site transformation strategies with client objectives, bringing forward-thinking perspectives to drive innovation and growth.

The successful candidate will cultivate a collaborative "one team" culture that seamlessly integrates with client operations, while serving as a charismatic and confident leader capable of presenting compelling insights to senior stakeholders. This position seeks someone who can balance tactical implementation with strategic vision, ensuring both immediate results and long-term partnership success.

Position Overview

The IFM Facilities Management Site Director is responsible for leading one designated client facility site under our Integrated Facilities Management (IFM) contract. This transformational leadership role requires someone who can drive operational excellence while building and maintaining strong, collaborative relationships with the client team. The successful candidate will serve as the primary client-facing representative, ensuring seamless service delivery and continuous improvement across all facility operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Client Relationship & Account Leadership
  • Serve as the primary client interface and relationship owner for the IFM account at the designated site.
  • Build and maintain strong, strategic partnerships with client facility managers, operations teams, strategic functions (including Finance, BI, HR, etc.) and executive leadership.
  • Act as a transformational leader who can influence positive change and drive client satisfaction.
  • Conduct regular client meetings, reviews, and strategic planning sessions.
  • Proactively identify client needs and develop solutions to exceed expectations.
  • Manage client escalations and ensure rapid resolution of issues.
• IFM Service Delivery & Operations Management
  • Lead the IFM service delivery model including maintenance, operations, space management, and support services.
  • Direct daily facility operations including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, security, and life safety systems.
  • Manage integrated service teams across multiple disciplines (maintenance, cleaning, security, landscaping, etc.).
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives and service optimization across all IFM service lines.
  • Ensure seamless coordination between all IFM service providers and client operations.
• Transformational Leadership & Team Development
  • Lead organisational change initiatives to improve service delivery and operational efficiency.
  • Build high-performing, client-focused teams across all IFM service areas.
  • Foster a culture of innovation, accountability, and client partnership.
  • Mentor and develop team members to enhance capabilities and career growth.
  • Champion best practices and drive standardization across service delivery.
• Financial & Performance Management
  • Manage IFM contract budgets and financial performance for the site.
  • Develop and track KPIs and SLAs in partnership with client stakeholders.
  • Identify cost optimisation opportunities while maintaining service excellence.
  • Prepare detailed performance reports and client presentations.
  • Negotiate change orders and additional services with client approval.
• Strategic Partnership & Innovation
  • Collaborate with client leadership on long-term facility strategy and planning.
  • Identify and implement innovative solutions to enhance facility performance.
  • Lead technology adoption and digital transformation initiatives.
  • Support client sustainability and corporate responsibility goals.
  • Position IFM services as a strategic business enabler for client operations.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Facilities Management, Engineering, Business Administration, or related field.
• 10+ years of facilities management experience with 5+ years in client-facing leadership roles.
• Proven track record in IFM or multi-service facilities management environments.
• Demonstrated success in building and maintaining strategic client relationships.
• Experience leading transformational change and service improvement initiatives.

Client Relationship & Leadership Skills

• Exceptional relationship-building and client management capabilities.
• Proven ability to influence and drive change in complex organizational environments.
• Strong executive presence and communication skills for C-level client interactions.
• Track record of turning around challenging client relationships or underperforming accounts.
• Experience managing large, integrated service teams and multiple vendor relationships.

Technical & Operational Skills

• Comprehensive knowledge of IFM service delivery models and best practices.
• Strong understanding of building systems and facility operations.
• Proficiency in IWMS and performance management systems.
• Knowledge of relevant codes, regulations, and industry standards.
• Experience with contract management and SLA performance tracking.

Preferred Qualifications

• Professional certifications (CFM, FMP, CPM, LEED AP, etc.).
• Background in consulting or professional services delivery.
• Track record of winning contract renewals and expanding account scope.

Critical Success Factors

• Must be a transformational leader with proven change management experience.
• Exceptional client relationship management and account growth capabilities.
• Ability to be based at the client site and serve as the primary IFM representative.
• Strong business acumen with focus on client value creation.
• Demonstrated ability to lead complex, multi-disciplinary service teams.