Interim Director of Estates

Interim Director of Estates

Pay: £325-£350 per day - Can be 4 or 5 days a week
Start: ASAP
Interviews:
Stage 1 - Teams | Stage 2 - Face‑to‑face

Are you an estates leader who can shape strategy, drive capital projects, and deliver a safe, sustainable, high‑performing estate?

This team requires a leader to bring stability and direction. Are you that person?

A leading higher education organisation is seeking an interim Director of Estates to take ownership of its estate strategy, capital projects, operational delivery, compliance, and long‑term development.

This is a pivotal, high‑impact role at the heart of the organisation's future.

The Role

You will lead the entire estates function - overseeing maintenance, cleaning, caretaking, security, catering, capital development, health & safety, and sustainability.

You will have 5 direct reports.

Working closely with the board, you'll set the strategic direction for the estate, manage multi‑million‑pound budgets, oversee tenders and contracts, and embed a culture of safety, digital innovation, and value for money across all operations.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the estates department and support the CFO with strategic planning
Develop and deliver the college's estates strategy and ensure policy compliance
Manage and motivate the estates team, shaping structure, performance and development
Oversee all health & safety, ensuring full statutory compliance
Manage revenue and capital budgets, producing accurate financial and operational reporting
Lead tendering, procurement and contract management for estates and capital projects
Commission property audits, condition surveys, and space utilisation reviews
Provide timely insights and advice to senior leaders and governors
Support risk management, resource planning and sustainability initiatives
Represent the college with external agencies and sit on the Wider Management Team
Act as Duty Manager and deputise for senior leaders when required

What You Bring

Experience of leading an estates team and strategy
Strong senior leadership in estates, facilities, or capital projects
Deep understanding of H&S, statutory compliance, and property management
Excellent strategic planning, contract management, and budget control
Ability to drive cultural, operational and sustainability improvements
Confident communicator who can influence at all levels

Why Apply?

This is a rare opportunity to take full ownership of a large, diverse estate and lead meaningful transformation - with immediate impact.

If you can start quickly and thrive in strategic, hands‑on environments…

Apply now - interviews happening immediately