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- Tasks: Manage maintenance and compliance for a leading design museum's iconic building.
- Company: Join the Design Museum, a global hub for contemporary design and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days leave, flexible working, and discounts at UK museums.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission-driven team that champions design's transformative power.
- Qualifications: Experience in property or facilities management with strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Applications close on 17th August 2025; apply with your CV and motivation.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
the Design Museum
Estates Manager
£42,430 per annum (plus excellent benefits)
The Design Museum is one of the world’s leading museums devoted to contemporary design in every form, from architecture and fashion to graphics, product, and industrial design. Founded by Sir Terence Conran in 1989, the museum has grown from a pioneering gallery in the basement of the V&A to a global cultural destination welcoming over a million visitors annually.
The Design Museum’s vision is bold: a world in which design enables this planet and its inhabitants to thrive. As a registered charity, they champion the transformative potential of design through exhibitions, learning programmes, and partnerships that inspire, challenge, and empower.
MRG are delighted to be partnering with the Design Museum to appoint an Estates Manager to play a central role in maintaining and enhancing their iconic Grade II listed building in Kensington. Reporting to the Head of Estates, this hands-on role oversees the delivery of hard services, minor works, and compliance across the museum, ensuring a safe, sustainable, and inspiring environment for staff and visitors.
Some key responsibilities will include:
- Managing mechanical, electrical, and building fabric maintenance through contracted service partners.
- Overseeing minor works and capital projects, ensuring quality and compliance.
- Monitoring health and safety practices, statutory inspections, and emergency planning.
- Supporting environmental and sustainability initiatives across the estate.
- Acting as a key liaison with internal teams and external partners, including managing bodies, service providers and contractors.
About you:
You’ll bring demonstrable experience in property, estates, or facilities management, with a good technical knowledge understanding and a proactive, detail-oriented approach. You will have experience of managing and working with external contractors to ensure operational excellence.You’ll be an excellent communicator, organised with a keen eye for detail, and a passion and commitment to high standards of safety and service. Experience and exposure of working within a high-footfall public space and/or cultural sector would be welcomed.
The Design Museum offer a competitive benefits package, including:
- 25 days annual leave (plus bank holidays and Christmas Eve)
- Defined contribution pension scheme (8% total contributions)
- Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
- Season ticket and tenancy deposit loans
- Cycle to work scheme
- Free entry to UK museums and galleries
- Staff discounts and development opportunities
- Enhanced maternity and paternity leave
- Employee assistance programme
Application process:
For a confidential discussion please contact our advisors Rob Cullum and Connor Humpage of The Management Recruitment Group at / The Management Recruitment Group has been exclusively retained for this campaign. All direct and third-party applications will be forwarded to them.
Applications should consist of a up-to-date CV and supporting statement outlining your suitability and motivations for applying for this position.
The further particulars can be viewed here .
Closing date for applications is: 11:59pm on Sunday 17th August 2025 .
Estates Manager employer: the Design Museum
Contact Detail:
the Design Museum Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Estates Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Design Museum's mission and values. Understanding their commitment to design and sustainability will help you align your experience and passion with their goals during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the property and facilities management sectors, especially those who have experience in cultural institutions. This can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals or recommendations.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of your past experiences managing contractors and ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations. Being able to articulate these experiences clearly will demonstrate your suitability for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current trends in sustainability and environmental practices within the estates management field. Showing that you are proactive about these issues can set you apart as a candidate who is aligned with the museum's vision.
We think you need these skills to ace Estates Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before you start writing your application, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Estates Manager position. Highlight how your experience aligns with managing mechanical, electrical, and building fabric maintenance.
Craft a Strong Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement should clearly outline your suitability for the role. Discuss your experience in property or facilities management, your technical knowledge, and your proactive approach to ensuring safety and service standards.
Tailor Your CV: Ensure your CV is up-to-date and tailored specifically for this role. Emphasise relevant experience, particularly in managing external contractors and working within high-footfall public spaces or the cultural sector.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, take the time to proofread your CV and supporting statement. Check for any spelling or grammatical errors, and ensure that your documents are clear and professional.
How to prepare for a job interview at the Design Museum
✨Know the Museum's Vision
Familiarise yourself with the Design Museum's vision and values. Understanding their commitment to design and sustainability will help you align your answers with their goals during the interview.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Be prepared to discuss your experience in property, estates, or facilities management. Provide specific examples of how you've successfully managed contractors and ensured compliance in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Communication Skills
As an Estates Manager, you'll need to liaise with various stakeholders. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, showcasing your ability to communicate effectively with both internal teams and external partners.
✨Showcase Your Attention to Detail
Given the hands-on nature of the role, emphasise your detail-oriented approach. Share instances where your keen eye for detail has led to improved safety standards or operational excellence in past positions.
