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Estates Manager Job

Estates Manager Job, Surrey

I am working with a leading independent school located in a stunning 520-acre estate in Surrey, it combines traditional and modern buildings, commercial properties, and private residences, all nestled in an area of outstanding natural beauty. They are dedicated to providing an exceptional educational environment and maintaining their grounds and facilities to the highest standards.

They are seeking an experienced and proactive Estates Manager to oversee the management, maintenance, and development of the School’s extensive estate. This includes a variety of buildings ranging from historic structures to modern facilities, along with expansive grounds and gardens. The Estates Manager will lead a team of maintenance and grounds operatives to ensure the estate is safe, secure, and maintained to a high standard, supporting the school’s educational mission and enhancing the experience for students, staff, and visitors.

The benefits of this role are numerous and include:

• Pension. The successful candidate will be auto enrolled into the School’s pension scheme, which includes life assurance.

• Lunch. A free lunch is available in the dining room each working day when the kitchens are open.

• Parking. There is free parking on site.

• Gym and Pool. There are staff sessions for use of these facilities.

Key Responsibilities: 

  • Develop and implement a comprehensive planned preventative maintenance plan that ensures all buildings, facilities, and grounds are maintained to a high standard, prioritising safety, sustainability, and efficiency. Delivery is through a team of in house staff and contracted support.

  • Oversee the maintenance and statutory compliance of a diverse portfolio of properties, including historic and modern school buildings, commercial properties, and private residences.

  • Oversee kitchen equipment maintenance through a contracted provider.

  • Lead, motivate, and manage a team of maintenance, grounds and administration support ensuring high levels of performance - Assist in the development of service level agreements and effective key performance monitoring

  • Coordinate daily work schedules and allocate resources effectively to meet the needs of the estate and respond to emergencies promptly.

  • Oversee the schools extensive 520 acres of grounds, including a vineyard ensuring they are well-presented, safe, and support the school’s educational activities and events.

  • Implement sustainable practices in grounds management, including waste management, recycling, and the use of environmentally friendly materials and methods. - Protect and enhance the natural beauty of the estate, including the management of woodlands, gardens,and recreational areas.

  • Ensure all estate operations comply with relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations and best practices. - Conduct regular risk assessments and implement necessary measures to mitigate potential hazards. - Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities, inspections, and compliance checks.

  • Ensure that due diligence checks are carried prior to appointing a new contractor using the School’s Pre-Qualification Questionnaire (PQQ)

  • Prepare and manage the estates department budget, ensuring effective use of resources and value for money.

  • Monitor and control expenditure, providing regular reports to the Director of Operations and identifying cost-saving opportunities.

You:

  • Proven experience in an estate’s management role, preferably within a school or similar environment.

  • Strong knowledge of building maintenance, grounds management, and project management.

  • Experience managing a diverse portfolio of properties, including historic buildings and modern facilities.

  • Excellent leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and develop staff. -

  • Strong understanding of health, safety, and environmental regulations and best practices.

  • Financial acumen and experience managing budgets and resources effectively.

  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with stakeholders at all levels.

  • Qualification in NEBOSH Fire, General or Construction (desirable)

  • Minimum of 3 years management experience.

  • Minimum of 5 years’ experience in the Facilities sector.

  • Ability to communicate at all levels of the organisation.

  • Experience with Building Management Systems – Tend 963 or IQ Vision would be advantageous.

*A full job description can be sent over upon request*

Start Date: ASAP

Hours of Work: 40 hours per week Monday to Friday, 52 weeks per year (Full time). Flexibility will be needed to work in evenings and weekends as required.

Salary: £45,442 to £50,268 dependant on skills and experience

Holiday: The holiday entitlement is 5 weeks per year plus public holidays (Pro rata).

Responsible Consultant: Kelly Bothomley (Kellyb@Greycoatlumleys.co.uk)