At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead campus services, ensuring safe and efficient operations while driving sustainability initiatives.
- Company: The University of Newcastle, committed to equity and excellence in education.
- Benefits: Inclusive workplace, professional development opportunities, and a focus on community impact.
- Other info: Join a diverse team dedicated to creating a respectful and inclusive environment.
- Why this job: Shape the future of campus services and enhance student experiences at a leading university.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in facilities management and strong stakeholder engagement skills.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
The University of Newcastle is renowned for its commitment to equity, excellence, and creating a better future for its communities. Guided by its Looking Ahead 2030 Strategic Plan, the University is focused on delivering an exceptional student experience, advancing research excellence, and making a meaningful impact across the regions it serves.
As part of the Resources Division, Infrastructure and Facilities Services (IFS) plays a critical role in supporting the University's strategic objectives through the planning, development, operation, and stewardship of its physical infrastructure and estate. An exciting opportunity now exists for an accomplished leader to join the University as Associate Director, Campus Services.
About the Opportunity
Reporting to the Director, Infrastructure and Facilities Services, the Associate Director, Campus Services is a key member of the IFS leadership team and will provide strategic and operational leadership across asset management, facilities maintenance, campus operations, sustainability and security services. Leading a team of experienced professionals and overseeing a broad portfolio of outsourced service providers and contractors, you will ensure the University's campuses continue to operate safely, efficiently and sustainably. You will drive continuous improvement initiatives, optimise asset performance, enhance service delivery and contribute to the long‑term planning and stewardship of a diverse and complex property portfolio. Working closely with senior stakeholders across the University, you will provide high-level strategic advice, manage significant operational budgets and play an important role in shaping the future direction of campus services. This is a unique opportunity to influence organisational outcomes while contributing to an environment that supports world‑class teaching, learning and research.
About You
You are an experienced and collaborative leader with a track record of success in facilities management, campus operations, asset management, or infrastructure services within a large and complex organisation with a substantial asset portfolio. You will bring:
- Significant senior leadership experience in facilities, infrastructure, property or operational services environments
- Demonstrated success leading maintenance, operations, and service delivery functions across large and complex property portfolios
- Strong knowledge of strategic asset management principles and operational best practice
- Experience managing major service contracts and contractor performance
- Proven ability to lead organisational change, continuous improvement and innovation initiatives
- Strong commercial acumen and experience managing substantial operating budgets
- Exceptional stakeholder engagement, communication and influencing skills
- Demonstrated ability to build, lead and develop high‑performing teams
- A commitment to workplace health and safety, environmental sustainability and service excellence
- Advanced analytical and problem‑solving skills with the ability to make sound decisions in complex environments
Our University is committed to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for every member of our community. This commitment is central to our values and our efforts to build a diverse workforce where everyone can thrive. As part of this, and in alignment with the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence 2025, from 1 January 2026, the University will also consider gender‑based violence risk factors as part of our recruitment processes. The completion and return of the University’s Gender‑based Violence Declaration Form will form part of the pre‑employment checks for this position and any offer of employment will be conditional upon review by the University. Our adherence to the Code is about more than compliance—it’s about living our values. Together, we can ensure our University remains a place where respect, safety, and inclusion are non‑negotiable.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas. We extend that respect to the homelands of our students and staff. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present. We are fully committed to building on our strengths in Indigenous higher education and providing a supportive space for our Indigenous students, staff and communities. The University of Newcastle is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion. We value the unique backgrounds, experiences and perspectives each person brings to our community and strive to create a culture of belonging where everyone can thrive. We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, women, people with diverse gender identities and sexualities, people living with disability, and those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
Associate Director Campus Services employer: University of Newcastle
The University of Newcastle is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment that prioritises equity and excellence. As part of the Resources Division, employees benefit from a collaborative culture that encourages professional growth and innovation, while contributing to meaningful initiatives that enhance student experiences and community impact. Located in a vibrant academic setting, the University offers unique opportunities for leadership in campus services, ensuring a rewarding career path for those passionate about sustainability and operational excellence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Director Campus Services
✨Tip Number 1: Get Involved in Consulting Case Competitions
Look for case competitions hosted by universities and consulting firms. They’re a fab way to showcase your problem-solving skills and meet industry players. Plus, winning one can seriously boost your CV, which we know is key when applying for roles like Associate Director Campus Services at University of Newcastle!
✨Tip Number 2: Leverage Alumni Networks
Tap into your university’s alumni network; many consultants love to help out new talent. Reach out to alumni who are working in management consulting, they might have insider knowledge about openings at firms like University of Newcastle or be willing to refer you for that Associate Director Campus Services position!
✨Tip Number 3: Attend Industry Events and Conferences
Keep an eye on management consulting events, workshops, or panels. These are prime opportunities to network with top professionals and get your name out there. You might even bump into someone from University of Newcastle who’s on the lookout for their next Associate Director Campus Services star!
✨Tip Number 4: Polish Your Consulting Skills Online
Engage with online platforms that offer consulting simulations or courses. Prove your chops by completing relevant projects — this not only beefs up your experience but also gives you concrete examples to chat about during interviews for that full-time Associate Director Campus Services role at University of Newcastle!
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Director Campus Services
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Problem-Solving Skills:In management consulting, it's all about problem-solving—so make sure your CV highlights your analytical and critical thinking skills. Include examples from your studies or previous roles where you tackled complex issues or came up with innovative solutions. Quantify your achievements whenever possible to demonstrate your impact!
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to explain why you're a perfect fit for the consulting world. Focus on your motivation for joining the industry and how your skills align with the requirements of the role at University of Newcastle. Remember to mention any relevant coursework or projects that showcase your understanding of strategic frameworks or business models!
Highlight Team Experience:Consultants often work in teams, so it's vital to showcase your collaborative skills. Include experiences where you've worked effectively with others, whether in academic group projects or internships. Discuss your role in the team and how you helped achieve common goals, demonstrating you can thrive in a consultancy environment.
Professionalise Your Online Presence:Make sure your LinkedIn and any other professional profiles are up to date, reflecting your career aspirations in management consulting. Connect with industry professionals and follow relevant groups—show you’re serious about entering this field. Applying through our website is a great way to get noticed, so showcase your personality and enthusiasm there!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Newcastle
✨Master the Case Study Game
In management consulting, case study interviews are all the rage. Make sure to practice structuring your thoughts and analysing data on the fly. Use resources like example case studies to get comfortable with frameworks and solutions. Remember, it’s not just about getting the right answer but showcasing your thought process, so talk us through your reasoning!
✨Know Your Numbers
Be prepared for some numerical and analytical questions. Brush up on your mental math and be ready to interpret data from charts or graphs. We might throw some business scenarios at you that require a quick turnaround on numerical analysis, so practice these skills to feel confident and swift!
✨Show Your Leadership Flair
As this is a full-time role, we want to see your potential as a seasoned consultant. Be ready to discuss experiences where you've led a project or a team. Think about times you've influenced decisions or navigated challenges—this is your chance to show how you can thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
✨Be a Cultural Fit
We’re not just looking for brains; we want to see if you vibe with our company culture at University of Newcastle. Prepare to share how your values align with ours. Have a think about what makes a great team environment for you and how you can contribute to that. A good cultural fit goes a long way in management consulting!
