Executive Director of Estates and Campus Services in Preston

Executive Director of Estates and Campus Services in Preston

Preston Full-Time On-site
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The University of Lancashire is seeking an outstanding estates leader to join the University as Executive Director of Estates and Campus Services.

This is a significant opportunity to shape the next phase of development of a large, diverse and operationally complex university estate. The successful candidate will provide strategic and visible leadership across the full Estates and Campus Services portfolio, ensuring that the University's buildings, infrastructure, facilities and services actively support its academic ambitions, financial sustainability and the experience of students, colleagues and visitors.

The University of Lancashire is an international, multi-campus university with roots dating back to 1828 and a strong commitment to delivering practical, real-world education. With a substantial presence across Lancashire, West Cumbria and a campus in Cyprus, the University plays an important educational, economic and civic role within the communities it serves.

Working closely with colleagues across the University, the Executive Director will lead the development and implementation of an ambitious, affordable and deliverable estate strategy and masterplan. Priorities will include estate rationalisation and optimisation, capital investment planning, sustainability and decarbonisation, statutory compliance, operational performance and the continued improvement of campus services.

The Executive Director will create a strong culture of collaboration, accountability and customer service, ensuring that teams are aligned around clear priorities and equipped to deliver excellent outcomes. This is also an important external-facing position. The successful candidate will build productive relationships with civic and regional partners, local authorities, professional advisers and delivery partners, ensuring that the University’s estate contributes positively to regeneration, placemaking and its wider regional impact.

We are seeking a visible, credible and inclusive leader with a strong track record of leading estates and facilities functions within a large and complex organisation. Candidates will bring experience of developing and implementing estate strategies, prioritising investment, optimising property and space, and leading operational services. Candidates must also have an undergraduate degree or an equivalent professional qualification.

Strong commercial and financial judgement will be essential, together with the interpersonal skills and executive presence required to build trust, influence senior stakeholders and lead large, diverse teams. Above all, the successful candidate will demonstrate the ambition, resilience and long-term commitment required to shape an estate and service environment that supports the future success of the University.

The closing date for applications is Sunday 1 November 2026. The interview date is 19th November 2026.

We are proud to be a diverse, multicultural university. We are committed to building a truly inclusive culture where diversity is championed. Applications are particularly welcomed from individuals who will support the diversification within the University and support its development of a culture that is inclusive and welcoming to all.

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Executive Director of Estates and Campus Services in Preston employer: MRG Global Pty

Associated British Ports (ABP) is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where employees can thrive in their careers while contributing to the UK's vital trade infrastructure. With a strong focus on professional development, ABP provides ample opportunities for growth and advancement within its extensive network of ports, fostering a collaborative culture that values innovation and teamwork. Located in the Humber region, employees benefit from a strategic position at the heart of the UK's maritime operations, ensuring a meaningful impact on the economy and community.

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Contact Details:

MRG Global Pty Recruitment Team