Director of Estates

Take ownership of a capital programme and shape the next decade of a truly diverse estate.

You’ll lead one of the most wide ranging portfolios in the sector, with the authority, visibility and backing to make decisions that genuinely last. This is a strategic leadership role for someone who enjoys setting direction, balancing ambition with delivery, and being present enough to see decisions through.

This is a rare opportunity to step into a genuinely strategic estates role, where you are trusted to shape outcomes rather than simply manage issues.

You’ll own and lead major capital investment, starting with conservation and renewal of a historic roof of one of the principal buildings, together with further infrastructure and sports facility development. Alongside this, you’ll help finalise and deliver a 5–10 year estates strategy and take decarbonisation from feasibility into delivery.

Responsibility spans a large, varied estate combining historic buildings, modern facilities, residential property and land. You’ll operate with real autonomy, working closely with senior leadership and governors in a school that values business leadership and has built a genuinely positive, collaborative culture.

You’ll lead and deliver major capital projects, balancing long‑term value with practical delivery. You’ll finalise and implement the estate strategy, make key decisions on sustainable infrastructure investment, and provide senior oversight of statutory compliance, health & safety and risk management.

You’ll also lead and support a developing estates structure, including an Estates Manager, Facilities Manager, Logistics Manager, and Transport Manager, and remain highly visible across the site. This is not an ivory‑tower role, it suits someone who enjoys being present, pragmatic and involved.

Alongside this, you’ll work closely with senior leaders and governors, translating estates priorities into clear, well‑judged recommendations.

• Experience leading multi‑million‑pound capital projects
• Senior ownership of statutory compliance and health & safety
• A background in education estates or similarly complex environments
• A visible, hands‑on leadership style combined with strategic thinking

This role suits someone comfortable making long‑term decisions, standing behind them, and being accountable for the outcome.

You’ll benefit from five weeks’ holiday plus public holidays, a pension scheme with life assurance, and access to excellent on‑site facilities including the gym, swimming pool, squash and tennis courts. A free lunch is available during the working day when kitchens are open, alongside free on‑site parking.

There is a strong staff community with regular social and wellbeing initiatives, and school fees remission is available for dependants. Most importantly, you’ll have the opportunity to see your decisions make a real, lasting difference.

Close to London yet set in an outstandingly beautiful rural landscape, Woldingham is a successful Catholic boarding and day school for girls aged 11-18, consistently ranked among the UK’s leading independent schools. With a proud 180‑year heritage and a clear commitment to innovation and sustainability, the school operates across a 550‑acre estate that includes historic and modern buildings, residential property, woodland and land.

It is a complex, varied environment where thoughtful stewardship and long‑term planning genuinely matter.

To apply, please send your CV to our retained recruitment consultant, Tom Morrison at Sielo Search:

For any questions about the role, feel free to email or contact Tom directly on .

The closing date for applications is Wednesday, 25th February 2026

Woldingham School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. An enhanced DBS report will be required for the successful candidate.