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- Tasks: Lead the management and development of our innovative Harpenden campus and facilities.
- Company: Join Rothamsted Research, a world-leading agricultural research institute with a rich history.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary and excellent benefits in a dynamic work environment.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a historic research campus while driving sustainability and innovation.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in estates and facilities management, with strong communication skills.
- Other info: Exciting career progression opportunities await in a collaborative and impactful setting.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Rothamsted Research is creating a new leadership role - Head of Estates and Facilities for our renowned Harpenden Campus. Rothamsted Research is a world-leading agricultural research institute with a proud history of innovation and impact. Our Harpenden campus is home to cutting-edge science and commercial activities, supported by a diverse estate that includes laboratories, farm land, offices, historic properties, residential accommodation, and extensive grounds. We are committed to sustainability, compliance, and delivering exceptional service to all users of our facilities.
Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, the Head of Estates and Facilities leads the management and development of our Harpenden campus and associated facilities, including those at our Broom’s Barn site. Rothamsted also has a site at North Wyke in Devon and the postholder will be expected to work closely with the Head of Estate Operations there.
As the most senior estates professional in the organisation, the role provides leadership across estates operations, strategy, and compliance, ensuring our facilities meet the needs of staff, students, tenants, and visitors. The role has a broad remit spanning master planning, capital development, hard and soft FM services, property and space management and sustainability across a 400-hectare research campus.
We are looking for an accomplished estates and facilities professional with a proven ability to lead diverse services across a complex, multi-building environment, ideally in a campus-type setting. You will bring strong operational expertise in managing day-to-day estates functions, whilst also having the capacity to shape estates strategy and drive property and space utilisation. A track record of leading change and performance improvement initiatives across estates operations is essential.
Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills are essential for success in this exciting role, together with the credibility to operate at a senior level and the energy to inspire high-performing teams. The role offers a superb career progression opportunity for an ambitious estates professional to shape the future of a historic and innovative research campus.
Applications should consist of a CV and covering letter and should be sent to sally.brockway@mrgglobal.com. Closing date for applications is 26th January 2026.
Head of Estates and Facilities employer: The Management Recruitment Group (MRG)
Contact Detail:
The Management Recruitment Group (MRG) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Estates and Facilities
✨Tip Number 1
Networking is key! Reach out to current or former employees at Rothamsted Research on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insights into the company culture and what they really value in a Head of Estates and Facilities.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching recent projects or initiatives at Rothamsted. We want to show that we’re not just interested in the role, but also passionate about their mission and how we can contribute to their innovative work.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice our answers to common interview questions, especially those around leadership and change management. We need to demonstrate our operational expertise and how we’ve successfully led teams in complex environments.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after the interview! A quick thank-you email can keep us fresh in their minds and show our enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate why we’re the perfect fit for the Head of Estates and Facilities position.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Estates and Facilities
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that align with the Head of Estates and Facilities role. Highlight your leadership experience in managing diverse services and any relevant achievements in estates strategy.
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 role. Share your vision for the Harpenden campus and how your operational expertise can drive performance improvements.
Showcase Your Interpersonal Skills: Since outstanding communication is key, don’t forget to illustrate your interpersonal skills in both your CV and cover letter. Give examples of how you've inspired teams or led change in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Management Recruitment Group (MRG)
✨Know Your Campus Inside Out
Before the interview, take some time to research Rothamsted Research and its Harpenden campus. Familiarise yourself with their facilities, sustainability initiatives, and any recent developments. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you discuss how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As the Head of Estates and Facilities, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership capabilities. Prepare examples from your past roles where you've successfully led teams or managed complex projects. Highlight your ability to inspire high-performing teams and drive change, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
Expect questions about your vision for estates strategy and property utilisation. Think about how you would approach master planning and capital development at Rothamsted. Be ready to discuss innovative ideas that could enhance their facilities and meet the needs of all users.
✨Communicate Effectively
Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills are essential for this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. During the interview, engage with your interviewers by asking insightful questions about their operations and expressing your enthusiasm for contributing to their mission.
