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- Tasks: Lead and shape the Estates Development supply chain at UCL, managing a £200m portfolio.
- Company: UCL, a top global university committed to innovation and impact.
- Benefits: 41 days holiday, pension scheme, gym access, and employee support services.
- Other info: Join a community that values diversity and fosters creativity.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a diverse environment while driving change and transformation.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in procurement with expertise in construction and engineering.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 £ per year.
At University College London (UCL), we do things differently. Founded in 1826 as London's global university, we were the first in England to welcome students regardless of religion and the first to admit women on equal terms. Today, we are a diverse and inclusive community of over 50,000 students and 18,000 staff, united by a shared commitment to excellence, innovation, and impact. Ranked among the top universities globally for research power, UCL tackles some of the world's most pressing challenges—from climate change and global health to social inequality and technological advancement.
Our Commercial & Procurement function plays a critical role in enabling this impact, evolving into a strategic partner that drives value, manages risk, and strengthens our global reputation.
About the role
This is a senior leadership opportunity to shape and lead the Estates Development supply chain at UCL. You will play a pivotal role in delivering a complex and high-value portfolio of approximately £200m per year, spanning construction, refurbishment, consultancy, and asset management. Reporting to the Executive Director of Commercial & Procurement, you will be responsible for building and leading a high-performing team, while acting as a strategic partner to the Estates function. You will lead major sourcing activities, oversee supplier performance, and ensure that commercial strategies deliver maximum value and impact. Working closely with senior stakeholders, you will help define and execute the Estates Supply Chain strategy, contribute to governance and decision-making forums, and drive continuous improvement across the function. This is a highly visible role requiring strong leadership, commercial expertise, and the ability to influence at the highest levels.
About you
You are an experienced commercial leader with a strong track record of delivering results in complex, matrixed environments. You bring deep expertise in procurement across major construction, engineering, or infrastructure categories, with a strong understanding of contracting models such as JCT and NEC. A confident and credible leader, you have the ability to build, develop, and inspire high-performing teams, while driving change and transformation at pace. You are equally comfortable operating strategically and getting hands-on when needed, particularly when navigating complex supplier landscapes or resolving challenges. You excel at stakeholder engagement, able to communicate complex ideas clearly and influence senior leaders. You bring a forward-thinking mindset, with a commitment to innovation, sustainability, and inclusive practices, and are motivated by the opportunity to contribute to an organisation with global impact.
What we offer
As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer some great benefits:
- 41 Days holiday (27 days annual leave, 8 bank holidays, and 6 closure days)
- Additional 5 days' annual leave purchase scheme
- Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE)
- Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan
- Relocation scheme for certain posts
- On-site gym
- Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay
- Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service
- Discounted medical insurance
Visit https://www.ucl.ac.uk/work-at-ucl/rewards-and-benefits to find out more.
Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
As London's Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation, and we want our community to represent the diversity of the world's talent. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong. We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in UCL's workforce. These include people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds; disabled people; LGBTQI+ people; and for our Grade 9 and 10 roles, women.
Director of Supply Chain - Estates Development employer: UCL
Contact Detail:
UCL Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Supply Chain - Estates Development
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and don’t be shy about asking for introductions. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Director of Supply Chain role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching UCL’s values and recent projects. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in their mission and how you can contribute to their success in Estates Development.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your experience in procurement and leadership clearly. Highlight your achievements in complex environments and how they align with UCL’s goals—this will set you apart from the competition.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining UCL and contributing to their impactful work.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Supply Chain - Estates Development
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Director of Supply Chain - Estates Development. Highlight your experience in procurement and leadership, and don’t forget to mention any relevant projects that showcase your ability to manage complex supply chains.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about this role at UCL and how your background aligns with their mission. Be sure to touch on your commitment to innovation and sustainability, as these are key values for them.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: In both your CV and cover letter, make sure to highlight your leadership experience. UCL is looking for someone who can build and inspire high-performing teams, so share examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, and you’ll find all the details you need right there!
How to prepare for a job interview at UCL
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a solid understanding of UCL's mission and values, especially around innovation and inclusivity. Familiarise yourself with their Estates Development projects and the specific challenges they face in supply chain management. This will show that you're not just interested in the role, but also in contributing to their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your experience in leading high-performing teams and driving change. Think about specific situations where you've influenced senior stakeholders or navigated complex supplier landscapes. Be ready to discuss how you can bring this expertise to UCL's Estates Development supply chain.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle real-life scenarios related to procurement and supply chain challenges. Practice articulating your thought process and decision-making strategies. This is your chance to demonstrate your commercial acumen and problem-solving skills.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Diversity
UCL values diversity and inclusion, so be prepared to discuss how you’ve fostered these principles in your previous roles. Share any initiatives you've led or been part of that promote equality and inclusivity within teams or projects. This will resonate well with their organisational culture.