At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of Keele University's estate strategy and enhance campus services.
- Company: Keele University, a vibrant community with a picturesque 600-acre campus.
- Benefits: Opportunity to make a lasting impact and drive sustainability initiatives.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to equality and representation in decision-making.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a beautiful campus while fostering community and excellence.
- Qualifications: Proven strategic leadership in estates management within complex organisations.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 117800 £ per year.
Keele University is seeking an outstanding and ambitious leader to join the institution as Executive Director of Estates and Commercial Services. For more than 75 years, Keele has been defined by the strength of its community and the distinctiveness of its academic offer. Established in 1949, the University is home to over 15,000 students and is set within one of the largest and most picturesque campuses in the UK, spanning more than 600 acres of Staffordshire countryside.
Keele has built a strong national and international reputation for the quality of its teaching and research, and offers a close-knit, campus-based experience that combines academic excellence with a strong sense of belonging. Within this context, the role of Executive Director of Estates and Commercial Services offers a unique opportunity to play a crucial role for the University. Reporting directly to the Vice-Chancellor and serving as a key member of the University Executive, the role carries responsibility for a broad and critical portfolio, encompassing estates development and asset management, facilities and campus services, sustainability, student accommodation and a range of commercial activities that support the University’s long-term financial resilience.
Keele’s campus is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful in the UK and sits at the heart of its identity and future success. Set within an extensive and distinctive environment, the estate provides a platform from which to enhance the student and staff experience, enable world-class teaching and research, strengthen partnerships and community engagement, and unlock new and sustainable commercial opportunities.
The postholder will lead the development and delivery of a long-term estate strategy and masterplan, shaping the evolution of the campus over the coming decades and ensuring it remains both distinctive and fit for the future. Keele is seeking an exceptional, values-driven leader with a strong track record of strategic estates leadership within a complex organisation. The successful candidate will be able to lead a broad portfolio spanning capital development, FM operations and commercial and hospitality services, combined with the ability to balance commercial performance with a strong service ethos.
They will demonstrate a deep commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility, alongside the credibility and presence to operate effectively at executive level and with external partners. Just as importantly, they will share Keele’s commitment to community and excellence, and be motivated by the opportunity to create lasting impact.
To learn more about the role, view the Candidate Brochure at: Keele University - EDofECS. To arrange a briefing discussion please contact our advisors Ben Duffill or Michael Hewlett at MRG. Applications should consist of a CV and supporting statement and can be sent to. The closing date for applications is 9th August 2026. Formal Interviews will be held on Friday 25th September 2026.
Keele University values diversity, and is committed to ensuring equality of opportunity, and to proper and fair representation across its senior decision making groups. In support of these commitments, the University particularly welcomes expressions of interest and applications from women and from individuals of Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds, for this post.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Director of Estates and Commercial Services in Newcastle
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We think you need these skills to ace Executive Director of Estates and Commercial Services in Newcastle
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Us Your Leadership Skills:In the corporate leadership and management field, it's essential to highlight your leadership experience. Use your CV to flesh out examples of how you've led teams to success or managed significant projects. We want to see specific instances where your actions made a tangible difference in your previous roles!
Quantify Your Achievements:Numbers talk, especially in management! When detailing your achievements in your CV or cover letter, don’t just say you improved team performance. Instead, say you boosted productivity by 30% over six months through effective strategy implementation. This makes your application pop and shows us what you can bring to Keele University.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to narrate your professional journey. We’re looking for motivation and a clear understanding of what corporate leadership means to you. Dive into your aspirations and how they align with the values and vision of Keele University. Make it personal – we want to get to know you!
Tailor Your CV for Management Roles:Ensure your CV reflects the management skills that are essential for this role. Focus on competencies like strategic planning, team building, and problem-solving. Use a clean layout, and don’t forget to align your experiences with those keywords mentioned in the job listing. This will help you stand out from the crowd!
How to prepare for a job interview at Keele University
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You’ll want to thoroughly convey your unique approach to leadership. During the interview with Keele University, be ready to share real-life examples of how you've inspired and motivated teams in the past. Think about specific achievements that illustrate your strategic thinking and your ability to drive results.
✨Brush Up on Management Theories
Expect some technical questions related to management theories and practices. Brush up on concepts like transformational leadership, servant leadership, or situational leadership. Be prepared to discuss how you would apply these theories to the role at Keele University, especially in the specific context of the challenges they’re currently facing.
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Since this is a full-time leadership role, spending time thinking about your vision for Keele University could really set you apart. Consider potential strategies for growth and how you would lead teams towards achieving them. This shows not just enthusiasm, but also strategic foresight that they’ll likely be looking for in a candidate.
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