Senior Building and Facilities Manager
Senior Building and Facilities Manager

Senior Building and Facilities Manager

Oxford Full-Time 36000 - 60000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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University of Oxford

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead the planning and management of a cutting-edge research facility at the University of Oxford.
  • Company: Join the prestigious University of Oxford, a leader in education and research.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a full-time role with competitive pay and the chance to work on impactful projects.
  • Other info: Fixed term contract until December 2027; applications close on 13 August 2025.
  • Why this job: Be at the forefront of scientific innovation and collaborate with top researchers in a dynamic environment.
  • Qualifications: Degree in a relevant field and experience managing complex research buildings required.

The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.

We have a new and exciting opportunity for a Senior Building and Facilities Manager to lead the planning, implementation, and operational management of the University of Oxford’s landmark Plot B2 Building, which is set to be a pivotal new research facility on the University’s clinical research campus in Headington.

This high-profile and strategically important role sits at the heart of a major new development that will bring together the Jenner Institute, the Pandemic Sciences Institute, and the Oxford Vaccine Group. Due for completion in November 2027, the Plot B2 Building will house the Cyrus Poonawalla Vaccines Research Building, featuring cutting-edge laboratory and office space, including Containment Level 2 and 3 laboratories, as well as shared spaces designed to encourage collaboration across disciplines.

As Senior Building and Facilities Manager, you will lead the strategic setup and ongoing operation of the Plot B2 Building, ensuring its successful operational readiness and smooth transition to occupancy. Working closely with senior stakeholders, including the Operational Readiness Steering Group, you will oversee laboratory planning, equipment procurement, infrastructure handover, and the migration of research staff and activities. You will manage all aspects of facilities and service delivery—such as maintenance, soft services, health and safety, compliance, and emergency planning—while holding responsibility for staff, budgets, and contracts to ensure the building operates efficiently, safely, and in alignment with the evolving needs of its research users.

To be successful, you will hold a degree or equivalent qualification in a relevant subject and have significant experience managing complex research buildings, including those with Containment Level 2 and 3 laboratories. You will demonstrate strong leadership, communication, and negotiation skills, with a proven track record in setting up operational procedures, leading teams, managing procurement processes, and maintaining health and safety compliance. Proficiency in building management systems and Microsoft applications, as well as a strong understanding of the diverse needs of research groups, is also essential.

Applications for this vacancy should be made online and you will need to upload a supporting statement and CV. Your supporting statement must explain how you meet each of the selection criteria for the post using examples of your skills and experience. Please restrict your documentation to your CV and supporting statement only. Any other documents will be requested at a later date.

This position is offered full time on a fixed term contract until 31 December 2027 and is funded by the PB2 capital project.

Only applications received before 12 midday on 13 August 2025 will be considered. Interviews will be held on the 27 and 28 August 2025.

Please quote 180614 on all correspondence.

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Senior Building and Facilities Manager employer: University of Oxford

The University of Oxford is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration at the forefront of research. As a Senior Building and Facilities Manager, you will play a crucial role in the development of cutting-edge facilities, with ample opportunities for professional growth and development within a prestigious institution. Located in the vibrant city of Oxford, employees benefit from a rich cultural heritage, access to world-class resources, and a commitment to supporting staff well-being and career advancement.
University of Oxford

Contact Detail:

University of Oxford Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Senior Building and Facilities Manager

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the University of Oxford's research facilities and their specific needs, especially regarding Containment Level 2 and 3 laboratories. Understanding the unique challenges and requirements of these environments will help you demonstrate your expertise during discussions.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with professionals in the higher education and research sectors, particularly those involved in building management. Attend relevant conferences or seminars to connect with potential colleagues and stakeholders who may influence the hiring process.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you've successfully managed teams in complex environments. Be ready to provide examples of how you've implemented operational procedures and ensured compliance with health and safety regulations.

✨Tip Number 4

Research the ongoing projects at the Pandemic Sciences Institute and the Jenner Institute. Being knowledgeable about their current initiatives will allow you to align your experience with their goals and show that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their mission.

We think you need these skills to ace Senior Building and Facilities Manager

Leadership Skills
Project Management
Operational Readiness Planning
Laboratory Management
Health and Safety Compliance
Budget Management
Contract Negotiation
Building Management Systems Proficiency
Communication Skills
Stakeholder Engagement
Procurement Processes
Emergency Planning
Attention to Detail
Problem-Solving Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and requirements of the Senior Building and Facilities Manager position. Highlight your relevant experience in managing complex research buildings, especially those with Containment Level 2 and 3 laboratories.

Craft a Strong Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement is crucial. Clearly address each selection criterion mentioned in the job description. Use specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your leadership, communication, and negotiation skills.

Tailor Your CV: Ensure your CV is tailored to the job. Emphasise your qualifications, relevant experience, and any specific skills related to building management systems and health and safety compliance. Keep it concise and focused on what makes you a strong candidate for this role.

Follow Application Instructions: Make sure to upload only your CV and supporting statement as specified. Double-check that all documents are formatted correctly and free of errors before submitting your application online through our website.

How to prepare for a job interview at University of Oxford

✨Understand the Role Thoroughly

Before the interview, make sure you have a deep understanding of the Senior Building and Facilities Manager role. Familiarise yourself with the specific responsibilities, such as overseeing laboratory planning and managing compliance. This will help you answer questions confidently and demonstrate your suitability for the position.

✨Prepare Relevant Examples

Be ready to discuss your past experiences that align with the job requirements. Think of specific examples where you've successfully managed complex research buildings or led teams in similar environments. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses effectively.

✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills

As this role requires strong leadership, be prepared to discuss your leadership style and how you've motivated teams in the past. Highlight any experience you have in negotiating with stakeholders or managing budgets, as these are crucial aspects of the job.

✨Ask Insightful Questions

At the end of the interview, take the opportunity to ask thoughtful questions about the Plot B2 Building project and the University’s vision for it. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the position aligns with your career goals.

Senior Building and Facilities Manager
University of Oxford
Location: Oxford
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