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 strong academic reputation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership role, and the chance to make a lasting impact.
- Other info: Join a diverse team dedicated to excellence and innovation in higher education.
- Why this job: Shape the future of one of the UK's most beautiful campuses and drive sustainability.
- Qualifications: Proven strategic leadership in estates management and a commitment to community values.
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 arrange a briefing discussion please contact our advisors Ben Duffill or Michael Hewlett at MRG. Applications should consist of a CV and supporting statement. 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.
Executive Director of Estates and Commercial Services in Keele employer: The Management Recruitment Group
Keele University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that prioritises community and academic excellence. With its stunning 600-acre campus in Staffordshire, employees benefit from a picturesque environment that fosters collaboration and innovation, alongside ample opportunities for professional growth and development. The role of Executive Director of Estates and Commercial Services not only allows for impactful leadership within a prestigious institution but also aligns with Keele's commitment to sustainability and community engagement, making it a truly rewarding place to work.
Contact Details:
The Management Recruitment Group Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Director of Estates and Commercial Services in Keele
✨Get Involved in Industry Events
Jumping into industry events or leadership conferences can really help boost your visibility. Not only will you meet potential employers, but you’ll also get the chance to connect with other leaders in corporate management. Look for local or even virtual events that focus on leadership—every connection counts!
✨Engage in Professional Networks
Join professional management associations relevant to your career goals. These networks often host workshops, panels, and networking events that can put you in front of hiring managers. Plus, they can give you the scoop on upcoming roles, such as the full-time positions with companies like The Management Recruitment Group.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
When reaching out to potential employers, particularly for leadership roles, demonstrate your leadership capabilities with real examples. Share stories from your previous positions that illustrate how you handled challenges and drove results. This will help you stand out when you apply to places like The Management Recruitment Group.
✨Tailor Your LinkedIn Presence
Ensure your LinkedIn profile is specifically tailored to corporate leadership. Highlight achievements, showcase relevant content and engage with posts in management groups. This not only builds your credibility but keeps you on the radar of companies looking for candidates like you as they post full-time opportunities.
We think you need these skills to ace Executive Director of Estates and Commercial Services in Keele
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 The Management Recruitment Group.
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 The Management Recruitment Group. 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 The Management Recruitment Group
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
You’ll want to thoroughly convey your unique approach to leadership. During the interview with The Management Recruitment Group, 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 The Management Recruitment Group, especially in the specific context of the challenges they’re currently facing.
✨Craft Your Vision for the Company
Since this is a full-time leadership role, spending time thinking about your vision for The Management Recruitment Group 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.
✨Emphasise Team Dynamics and Culture
In corporate leadership, team dynamics and organisational culture are everything. Be ready to discuss how you've fostered a positive work environment in previous roles. Bring up examples of how you've managed diverse teams effectively—this will resonate well at The Management Recruitment Group as they’re likely seeking a candidate who can enhance their workplace culture.
