At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic planning and management of the University's infrastructure.
- Company: Join the University of Manchester, a world-class institution.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, excellent pension, flexible working, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Inclusive environment with support for diverse backgrounds and hybrid working options.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a leading university and drive impactful infrastructure projects.
- Qualifications: Degree in architecture, engineering, or related field; extensive leadership experience required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
About the Role
We are seeking an accomplished and experienced Director of Estates Infrastructure to lead the strategic planning, development, and management of the University’s physical infrastructure. In this senior leadership role, you will oversee a diverse capital and maintenance portfolio, ensuring the University’s estate supports world class teaching, research, and operational excellence. With responsibility for capital development, compliance, long-term maintenance, you will play a pivotal role in delivering the University’s Integrated Infrastructure Plan and contributing to the Manchester 2035 Strategy.
If you are a strategic leader with expertise in estates, capital planning and delivery, an infrastructure management maintenance and compliance, and you want to shape the future of one of the UK’s most ambitious Universities, this is a brilliant opportunity.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the Infrastructure Unit, delivering strategic and operational Estates plans.
- Oversee the University’s 10 year Estates Capital Plan, from feasibility through to delivery.
- Manage capital and revenue portfolios (circa £100m per annum), ensuring best value and compliance with financial and regulatory standards.
- Ensure compliance with statutory requirements across fire safety, asbestos, water, gas, electrical, HVAC, and pressure systems.
- Drive integration of long term Maintenance and Zero Carbon strategies into Estates planning.
- Work in tandem with IT colleagues, ensuring good IT Systems capability to help create both a digital, and physical infrastructure.
- Lead frameworks, procurement, and supply chain management for major projects.
- Manage minor works, small projects, and residential plans through in house teams and external partners.
- Build strong stakeholder relationships across the University and external partners.
- Lead, motivate, and develop high-performing professional Estates teams.
- Represent the University at a senior level, deputising for the Chief Property Officer when required.
Essential Skills and Experience
- Degree or professional qualification in architecture, engineering, planning, or surveying.
- Extensive senior leadership experience in estates and infrastructure within a large, complex organisation.
- Proven ability to deliver complex capital programmes on time, to budget, and to the highest standards.
- Strong strategic planning and project management expertise.
- Excellent stakeholder engagement and influencing skills at senior levels.
- Strong knowledge of legislation and compliance requirements relating to estates and infrastructure.
- Demonstrated ability to lead organisational change and foster a one team culture.
- Strong IT literacy, including Microsoft 365.
Desirable Skills and Experience
- Experience in Higher Education or a similarly complex environment.
- Track record of embedding sustainability and zero carbon initiatives in estates strategies.
- Experience of major contract and framework management.
Why work at The University of Manchester?
Join a world-class institution that values diversity and equality in the workplace. Benefit from a range of staff benefits, including family-friendly policies, flexible working arrangements, and career development opportunities. Access to training and mentorship to support your career growth, with structured development plans and performance reviews. Be part of a global institution in a vibrant, culturally diverse city, with support for international applicants and relocation assistance. The University is committed to providing a supportive and inclusive environment where all employees can thrive. We invite applications from all backgrounds and look forward to welcoming the next member of our team to the Directorate of Estates and Facilities.
What you will get in return
- Fantastic market leading Pension scheme
- Excellent employee health and wellbeing services including an Employee Assistance Programme
- Exceptional starting annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays
- Additional paid closure over the Christmas period
- Local and national discounts at a range of major retailers
As an equal opportunities employer we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit.
Hybrid working arrangements may be considered. The vacancy will close for applications at midnight on the closing date. Enquiries: Ben Usher (ben.usher@manchester.ac.uk) for shortlisting/interviews, or People.recruitment@manchester.ac.uk for general enquiries. Technical support: jobseekersupport.jobtrain.co.uk.
Director of Estates (Infrastructure) in Manchester employer: The University of Manchester
The University of Manchester is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that champions diversity and equality. With a strong focus on employee development, you will benefit from comprehensive training, mentorship, and flexible working arrangements, all while contributing to the strategic vision of one of the UK's leading universities in a vibrant city. Join us to make a meaningful impact on the future of education and infrastructure, supported by a competitive salary and outstanding benefits.
Contact Details:
The University of Manchester Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Estates (Infrastructure) in Manchester
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We think you need these skills to ace Director of Estates (Infrastructure) in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Real-Estate Savvy:When crafting your CV and cover letter, make sure to highlight any relevant experience in the real estate sector. If you've done internships, assistant roles, or even relevant coursework, lay it out clearly. We want to see your familiarity with market trends, property management, or any sales experience you've got under your belt!
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How to prepare for a job interview at The University of Manchester
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Expect some scenario-based questions during the interview. We might get asked how we’d handle different client situations or property evaluations. Preparing our responses for common real estate scenarios not only demonstrates our problem-solving skills but also shows that we can think on our feet in a client-facing role.
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Familiarity with different real estate software tools is a big plus. We should be ready to discuss any platforms we've used, whether it's for property management, CRM, or data analysis. Being comfortable with technology not only makes us more efficient, but also shows that we’re adaptable to the tools used at The University of Manchester.
