Head of Estates and Technical Services

Ensure full compliance with statutory, mandatory, and technical regulations, providing assurance to senior leadership and the Board.

Oversee maintenance, repairs, project delivery, and lifecycle planning for all estate assets.

Drive continuous improvement, operational efficiency, and a culture of excellent customer service within the estates function.

Manage KPIs, SLAs, budgets, reporting, procurement, and helpdesk operations.

This role is critical to maintaining service delivery by managing estate assets, infrastructure, and technical systems safely, efficiently, and in compliance with all relevant standards and regulations.

This role is responsible for leading and managing the Estates and Technical Services function across multiple operational sites within the East Kent area. The position supports frontline public services by ensuring that the estate, plant, and equipment operate safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with statutory, mandatory, and technical regulations.

As the technical lead, you will provide strategic advice, develop and implement solutions, manage budgets, oversee procurement, and maintain strong working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

Ensure Health & Safety compliance, effective use of CAFM and BMS systems, and adherence to all relevant regulatory and building standards.

Provide expert technical advice and develop solutions that support operational and organisational needs.

Participate in the on-call rota to support incidents, emergency planning, and contingency management.

You will lead a multidisciplinary team of managerial, technical, and administrative staff of approximately 30+, ensuring high performance and continuous improvement. The remit includes maintenance, compliance, projects, lifecycle planning, and performance management through KPIs, SLAs, and other key metrics.

Lead, manage, and develop a team delivering estate and technical services across multiple operational sites.

You will also participate in the on-call rota, attending sites outside normal working hours as required.

Significant experience in a mechanical and electrical estates management environment, preferably within a large or complex organisation, with at least five years in a management role.

Ability to collaborate effectively with stakeholders, contractors, and staff in a complex, multi-site environment.

Strong problem-solving ability with sound mechanical and electrical aptitude.

Authorised Person status in one or more disciplines: electrical systems, medical gases, water systems, ventilation, boilers, or power generation.

Strong knowledge of health technical standards, building regulations, and project management processes, including asbestos, water management, and COSHH compliance.

Proven ability to manage budgets, staff performance, and complex technical projects.

Membership of a recognised Building Services professional body (e.g. CIBSE, IHEEM, IWFM).

Excellent communication, numeracy, and IT skills (including CAFM, BMS, CAD, and reporting systems).

Full UK driving licence.

Staff communication and wellbeing platforms.

Degree or equivalent in a relevant discipline, supported by specialist knowledge through postgraduate or professional development.

Salary Range £60,000 to £67,000

Discounted on-site catering.

Eligibility for a public sector discount card and associated staff benefits.

Onsite childcare facilities (where available).

Generous annual leave allowance with the opportunity to buy or sell leave.

Pension scheme participation.