Head of Estates & Facilities

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and strategic Head of Facilities & Maintenance to lead the management, development and maintenance of our independent school’s estate. This is a senior, hands‑on role, vital to ensuring a safe, well‑maintained and inspiring environment that supports outstanding teaching, learning and pupil wellbeing.

Reporting to senior leadership, you will have overall responsibility for facilities, maintenance, health & safety and contractor management across the school’s site, leading a dedicated team and working closely with internal stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

Estates & Maintenance Management

• Lead the day‑to‑day operation, maintenance and development of the school estate
• Ensure buildings, grounds and facilities are safe, compliant and maintained to a high standard
• Develop and deliver planned and reactive maintenance programmes
• Manage refurbishment, improvement and capital projects as required

Health, Safety & Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with health & safety legislation and statutory requirements
• Oversee risk assessments, inspections and audits across the site
• Act as the responsible person for fire safety, asbestos, legionella and other compliance areas

Team Leadership & Contractors

• Lead, motivate and develop the in‑house facilities and maintenance team
• Manage external contractors and service providers, ensuring quality, value and compliance
• Maintain strong working relationships with staff, pupils and visitors

Budget & Strategic Planning

• Prepare and manage facilities and maintenance budgets
• Control costs while maintaining high standards
• Contribute to the long‑term estate strategy and sustainability initiatives

Requirements

• Proven experience in a senior facilities, estates or maintenance role, ideally within an educational or similar environment
• Strong knowledge of health & safety, compliance and building maintenance
• Experience leading teams and managing contractors
• Ability to manage budgets and prioritise competing demands
• Excellent communication, organisational and problem‑solving skills
• A proactive, practical approach with pride in maintaining exceptional environments

What’s on Offer

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• The opportunity to work in a respected independent school setting
• A varied and influential leadership role
• Supportive working environment and long‑term career development opportunities