Head of Estates

ABOUT OLDHAM COLLEGE

Oldham College is one of the largest further education providers in Greater Manchester, supporting thousands of students each year to develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need for their future.

We work closely with local employers, universities, and community partners to deliver education and training that meets the needs of our region. Our staff play a vital role in creating a supportive, inclusive environment where students and colleagues can thrive.

Every role at the College contributes to helping people achieve their potential.

ABOUT THE ROLE

As Head of Estates and Facilities, you will lead the strategic and operational management of the College estate, ensuring a safe, compliant and high-quality environment for students, staff and visitors. You will oversee estates planning, facilities services, and capital projects, driving efficiency, sustainability and value for money. Working closely with senior leaders, you will provide expert advice on estates, infrastructure, health and safety, and long-term campus development.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

In this role you will:

• Lead the development and delivery of the College’s estates and facilities strategy, aligned to organisational priorities
• Ensure all buildings and services are safe, compliant and fit for purpose, meeting statutory and regulatory requirements
• Manage estates operations including maintenance, security, cleaning, transport and contractor performance
• Oversee capital projects and refurbishment programmes, ensuring delivery on time and within budget
• Drive sustainability initiatives, including energy management and carbon reduction across the estate
• Carry out duties in line with College policies and procedures, including safeguarding and equality commitments

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

We are looking for someone who can demonstrate:

• NEBOSH Certificate in Health and Safety and significant experience in estates or facilities management
• Proven leadership experience with the ability to motivate, develop and manage high-performing teams
• Strong knowledge of estates compliance, health and safety regulations and facilities best practice
• Experience of managing budgets, procurement processes and external contractors
• Excellent communication, organisational and stakeholder management skills

WHY JOIN US

We offer a supportive working environment with opportunities to develop and progress. Benefits include:

• 54 days’ holiday, supporting work–life balance, including 35 bookable days plus bank holidays, efficiency days, and Christmas closure
• Pension contributions of 15%
• Free counselling and wellbeing support
• Retail discounts through our benefits platform
• Enhanced family-friendly policies
• Paid special leave
• Training and development opportunities
• Free breakfast Fridays
• On-site facilities including canteens and a day nursery
• Free parking and electric car scheme
• Cycle to work scheme

INCLUSION AND FLEXIBILITY

We are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion and welcome applications from all sections of the community.

We are a Disability Confident employer and guarantee an interview to disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria.

We support the Armed Forces Covenant and welcome applications from serving personnel, veterans, and military families.

Flexible working options may be available depending on the role.

SAFEGUARDING

The College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults.

This role is subject to pre-employment checks, which may include an enhanced DBS check, DfE barred list check, online searches, and references.

It is a criminal offence under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 to apply for regulated activity roles if barred from working with children or vulnerable adults.

USE OF AI IN APPLICATIONS

We recognise that candidates may choose to use AI tools to support their application. If you do use AI, please ensure the information you submit accurately reflects your own skills, experience, and achievements. You may be asked to discuss your application during the recruitment process.

HOW TO APPLY

Please review the job description and person specification and submit your application by the closing date.

Join us and be part of a College where together, we invest in your future.