Estates SHEF & SFA Manager-DEF Academy Services

Ready to impact a better future?

As our Estates Safety, Health, Environment and Fire (SHEF) and Service Families Accommodation (SFA) Manager within the Defence team, you’ll play a pivotal role in creating safer environments, enhancing our positive culture, and ensuring we meet critical regulatory and contractual commitments. Your work will directly support the Defence Academy’s mission to educate and develop those who lead and protect our future.

You’ll shape and lead SHEF and fire management strategies across the Estates department, guide colleagues with confidence and care, and help deliver services that make a meaningful impact on the Defence Academy community. This is a role with purpose – where your expertise contributes to safer workplaces, stronger processes, and better outcomes for all.

• Set direction and implement Safety, Health, Environment and Fire (SHEF) management across the Estates department.
• Monitor, evaluate and review existing, new and upcoming SHEF and fire legislation, ensuring compliant systems and processes.
• Work proactively with managers and colleagues to drive continuous improvement and maintain a positive safety culture.
• Oversee contractor control processes, site inspection regimes, and quality sampling of subcontractor works.
• Act as Serco’s on‑site Fire Responsible Person and technical fire expert, managing fire risk assessments, compliance programmes and emergency systems.
• Support the delivery and oversight of Service Families Accommodation related responsibilities within Estates.

• A NEBOSH Level 3 Occupational Health and Safety qualification and membership of IOSH (or are working towards it).
• Experience in fire safety management, including producing fire strategies, risk assessments and fire evacuation plans.
• Strong knowledge of relevant standards and legislation, such as BS9999:2017, BS5839:2025 and the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
• Demonstrable experience influencing culture change, coaching others and managing operational SHEF processes.
• The ability to build trusted relationships with a wide range of colleagues, stakeholders and partners.

This role requires BPSS clearance
, which involves identity verification, employment history, and criminal record checks to meet government security standards. An Occupational Health Questionnaire will also be required to ensure we can offer appropriate support for your wellbeing and performance.

We’re one of the top 1% of international employers, so you can have confidence you’ll be part of a highly supportive culture with leaders you can count on to help you achieve your goals. From mentoring and training to our focus on internal progression, we’re proud to offer clear development opportunities – and the support and tools to help you seize them.