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- Tasks: Lead campus operations and facilities services across diverse university estates.
- Company: Join the University of Reading, a top UK institution with a century-long legacy in education.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, generous annual leave, and a strong pension plan.
- Why this job: Shape the future of campus operations in a beautiful, inspiring environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in estate leadership and managing large operational property portfolios is essential.
- Other info: Applications close on 5th May 2025; interviews start the following week.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
The University of Reading is seeking to appoint a Campus Operations Director to lead the delivery of outstanding campus and facilities services across the University’s diverse estate portfolio.
The University has a significant operational estate portfolio consisting of more than 200 buildings and over 250,000m2 of space, spanning academic, research, enterprise, sport, recreation and residential buildings and facilities. It also has an investment portfolio comprising an incredibly diverse variety of land and property including commercial, residential, innovation & enterprise, research & development, industrial, retail and rural space. We have over 500 tenants ranging from multi-national corporations to individual partners.
A rare opportunity has arisen to shape the future of Campus Operations provision at the University. Reporting to the Director of Estates, the Campus Operations Director leads a department spanning Hard FM (Planned Maintenance, Reactive Maintenance, and Gardens & Grounds) and Soft FM (Security, Cleaning, Post, Portering, and Building Support) across the campus and estate portfolio.
Leading the department involves fostering teamwork and instilling the ‘One Estates’ ethos, emphasising collaboration across the Directorate. The Director of Campus Operations is accountable for ensuring FM services are fit for purpose, customer-focused, innovative, compliant with legislation, and promote best practice. Delivering the Maintenance Plan on time and within budget, reducing backlog maintenance, aligning maintenance activities with the Decarbonisation Plan and improving HESA condition ratings are key objectives.
The ideal candidate will have demonstrable experience in estate leadership roles, managing large-scale operational property portfolios with budgets exceeding £10 million. They will possess a specific track record in leading performance improvements across estates operations functions, as well as the ability to oversee a portfolio of soft FM services. Experience in environments with comparable characteristics to those found at the University, including 24/7 operational settings, diverse property and facility types, and complex processes, is essential.
We are seeking an individual that has senior-level leadership experience within complex organisations, with a proven ability to inspire and lead a substantial in-house staff cohort, ranging from senior managers to operational professionals. They will possess excellent interpersonal, communication and stakeholder management skills, coupled with a dynamic yet collaborative disposition.
The University of Reading offers a compelling benefits package including the exceptional USS pension, generous annual leave (40 days including university closure days and public holidays), a strong commitment to employee health and wellbeing and access to various optional benefits.
The closing date for applications is 5th May 2025. First stage interviews with MRG will take place w/c 5th and 12th May 2025. Final stage interviews with the University will take place on campus on w/c 2nd June 2025.
Campus Operations Director employer: University of Reading
Contact Detail:
University of Reading Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Campus Operations Director
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the University of Reading's estate portfolio and its unique characteristics. Understanding the diverse range of facilities and their operational needs will help you demonstrate your knowledge during discussions and interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees in similar roles within the university sector. They can provide valuable insights into the campus operations landscape and may even offer tips on how to navigate the application process effectively.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in managing large-scale operational property portfolios, especially those exceeding £10 million. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've led performance improvements and managed diverse teams in complex environments.
✨Tip Number 4
Highlight your leadership style and how it aligns with the 'One Estates' ethos. Be prepared to explain how you foster teamwork and collaboration among staff, as this is a key aspect of the Campus Operations Director role.
We think you need these skills to ace Campus Operations Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Thoroughly read the job description for the Campus Operations Director position. Make sure you understand the key responsibilities and required qualifications, as this will help you tailor your application.
Craft a Tailored CV: Highlight your relevant experience in estate leadership roles and managing large-scale operational property portfolios. Ensure your CV reflects your ability to lead performance improvements and manage substantial budgets.
Write a Compelling Supporting Statement: In your supporting statement, address how your skills and experiences align with the requirements of the role. Use specific examples to demonstrate your leadership abilities and your approach to fostering teamwork and collaboration.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread your CV and supporting statement. Check for any spelling or grammatical errors, and ensure that your documents are clear and concise.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Reading
✨Understand the University’s Vision
Familiarise yourself with the University of Reading's mission and values. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with their commitment to outstanding campus services and innovative practices.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Highlight your previous roles in estate leadership, particularly those involving large-scale operational property portfolios. Be ready to provide specific examples of how you've led teams and improved performance in similar environments.
✨Emphasise Collaboration Skills
The role requires fostering teamwork and collaboration. Prepare to discuss instances where you've successfully worked across departments or with diverse teams to achieve common goals.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities in complex operational settings. Think about challenges you've faced in facilities management and how you addressed them, especially in 24/7 environments.
