Farnham Castle Weddings and Events, Farnham, Surrey
Farnham Castle is a Grade I listed, 900-year-old landmark in Surrey, previously host to monarchs, now a luxury event venue with 34 bedrooms and multiple event spaces and extensive grounds. We are seeking an experienced and versatile Facilities & Grounds Manager to oversee all aspects of operational maintenance, compliance, and preservation of this historic property.
Job Summary: This is a unique opportunity for a professional who can combine strategic oversight with hands-on delivery. We are seeking a dedicated and versatile candidate will ensure the Castle's heritage features are protected while supporting its role as a modern, high-end events venue.
Key Responsibilities:
Operational & Strategic Management
* Lead the Facilities and Grounds teams in day-to-day operations (delivering Weddings, parties and corporate events), preventive maintenance, and restoration projects.
* Safeguard and maintain historic features such as clock towers, chapels, original floors, windows, and doors.
* Deliver renovation and improvement projects with conservation bodies and specialist contractors, ensuring works align with heritage and luxury standards.
Team & Contractor Oversight
* Manage, motivate, and develop the maintenance team, including rota planning, holidays, appraisals, and uniforms.
* Oversee contractor and supplier performance, negotiating contracts and ensuring cost-effectiveness and quality.
* Manage inventories of tools, equipment, and supplies for efficient operations.
* Hands-On technical work applying skills across multiple trades, including:
* Carpentry: repair/replace doors, skirting, mouldings, panelling; restore original flooring and furniture.
* Plumbing: organising servicing of and maintenance to heating systems, water supplies, drainage; repair cisterns, taps, radiators, and valves.
* Electrical: replace sockets, switches, and fittings; maintain security cameras; carry out fault-finding.
* Decorating: complete interior and exterior works to a high standard, including ornate ceilings and panelling.
* IT/AV Systems: maintain servers, sound systems, projectors, microphones, and conferencing equipment.
* Horticulture and grounds maintenance: Oversee the care of 5 acres of grounds, servicing of garden machinery, care of flower beds, lawns and kitchen gardens, ensure immaculate presentation of driveways, car parks etc, manage tree felling and coppicing.
Compliance & Risk Management
* Ensure full compliance with health & safety, fire safety, legionella, and electrical regulations.
* Conduct audits, review risk assessments, and implement robust safety procedures across the site.
Financial & Stakeholder Management
* Control and monitor maintenance budgets, ensuring cost efficiency and value for money.
* Provide reports on performance, compliance, risks, and repair vs replacement decisions.
* Develop and maintain strong relationships with contractors, trustees, heritage organisations, and local authorities.
Essential Skills & Experience
* Proven experience in facilities management, ideally within a heritage, hospitality, or listed-building environment.
* Strong technical skills across carpentry, plumbing, electrical, decorating, and AV/IT systems.
* Demonstrable success in managing contractors, suppliers, and budgets.
* Comprehensive understanding of compliance frameworks (H&S, fire safety, legionella, electrical).
* Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and manage teams.
* Excellent organisational, problem-solving, and communication skills.
* Ability to balance hands-on technical work with strategic oversight.
Desirable
* IOSH Trained
* Managerial Experience
* Relevant qualifications in facilities management, health & safety, or a technical trade.
Benefits:
* Competitive salary based on experience.
* Paid holidays.
* Training and development opportunities.
* A supportive and friendly working environment.
Application Process: Interested candidates are invited to submit their CV and a cover letter outlining their relevant experience and why they are a good fit for this role to
Salary - From £40,000 pa - 40 hrs per week (salary subject to experience)
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £40,000.00-£45,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* On-site parking
Ability to commute/relocate:
* Farnham GU9 0AG: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Education:
* A-Level or equivalent (preferred)
Work Location: In person