PFI Contract Manager – Contract Expiry & Handback
An exciting opportunity for a commercially focused PFI Contract Manager with expertise in facilities management, contract negotiation, lifecycle management and school estates.
Job overview: This role is known internally as a Contract Expiry Manager (PFI) and will lead the strategic delivery of school PFI contract expiry and handback activities across a large public sector estate.
He/She will oversee complex hard and soft FM contracts, lifecycle reviews, commercial negotiations and stakeholder engagement to ensure assets are returned safely, compliantly and in a fit‑for‑purpose condition.
Working closely with schools, senior leaders and private sector partners, the PFI Contract Manager will provide expert contractual, commercial and technical advice while supporting long‑term estate sustainability, compliance and value for money.
Duties
* Lead PFI Handback Activities: Manage the end‑to‑end delivery of contract expiry and asset handback activities across school estates.
* Develop Exit Strategies: Produce and implement detailed transition, governance and handback plans to achieve key contractual milestones.
* Manage Commercial Risk: Lead negotiations with private sector partners to minimise financial and operational risk.
* Provide Specialist Advice: Deliver expert guidance on PFI contracts, facilities management and estates compliance matters.
* Oversee Lifecycle Reviews: Coordinate compliance audits, performance monitoring and lifecycle inspections ahead of handback.
* Support Operational Teams: Work closely with PFI Contract Managers and business‑as‑usual teams to maintain service continuity.
* Lead Stakeholder Engagement: Build effective working relationships with schools, senior stakeholders, contractors and government bodies.
* Represent the Organisation: Attend governance boards, strategic meetings and commercial discussions on behalf of the organisation.
* Drive Estate Improvements: Identify practical and cost‑effective solutions to support long‑term estate and asset management objectives.
Candidate Requirements – Essential
* RICS qualification or equivalent in property, estates or contract management.
* Degree or equivalent qualification in a relevant discipline.
* Previous experience operating within a PFI or complex contract management environment.
* Proven experience managing large hard and soft FM contracts.
* Strong commercial acumen with excellent negotiation and risk management skills.
* Ability to analyse contractual and technical information and apply practical solutions.
* Experience preparing reports and presenting information to senior stakeholders.
* Confidence leading complex meetings and managing sensitive contractual discussions.
* Proactive, pragmatic and solution‑focused approach to work.
Candidate Requirements – Desirable
* Project management qualifications or relevant experience.
* Experience working within education or school estates environments.
Benefits
* Flexible/Hybrid working arrangements.
* Local Government Pension Scheme.
* Generous annual leave entitlement.
* Professional development opportunities.
* Employee discounts and benefits package.
* Supportive team environment.
Salary: £49,178 to £52,937 per annum + Benefits.
Location: Hybrid – working from the office in Matlock, Derbyshire, East Midlands (DE4) and from home.
Job type: Full‑Time, Permanent.
Working hours: 37 hours per week, Monday to Friday.
Job ref: AWDO-P14768
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