Job Description
Deputy Director of Estates & Facilities
Rate - £675 (A Day)
Location - London (Hybrid)
Duration - 6 Months (Initially)
Ir35 - Inside (Must use an umbrella company)
Role Purpose
To support the strategic and operational leadership of the Estates & Facilities function within a Higher Education environment, while leading a defined transformation programme. The postholder will bring a strong operational background, ensuring continuity of Estates & FM services while driving change initiatives to enhance service delivery, efficiency, compliance, and customer experience.
The role will also act as a deputy to the Director of Estates & Facilities, providing leadership across core EFM services when required.
Key Responsibilities
Transformation Programme Leadership
* Lead the delivery of a structured Estates & Facilities transformation programme over a 6-month period.
* Identify opportunities for service optimisation, cost savings, and operational improvements across EFM.
* Implement change management strategies to support successful adoption across teams.
* Develop and track KPIs, milestones, and benefits realisation.
* Engage with senior stakeholders to ensure alignment with institutional strategy.
Essential Experience
* Significant experience in Estates & Facilities Management within a complex environment (ideally Higher Education, NHS, or public sector).
* Demonstrable experience leading operational FM services (hard and soft FM).
* Proven track record of delivering transformation/change programmes.
* Experience deputising at a senior level within Estates & Facilities.
* Strong understanding of statutory compliance and health & safety regulations.
Skills & Competencies
* Strong leadership and stakeholder management skills.
* Ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on operational delivery.
* Excellent project and programme management capability.
* Commercial awareness and financial acumen.
* Effective communicator with the ability to influence at all levels.
Qualifications (Desirable)
* Relevant degree or professional qualification (e.g. FM, Engineering, Building Services).
* Membership of a professional body (e.g. IWFM, RICS, CIOB).
* Project management qualification (PRINCE2, MSP, or equivalent).