Job Purpose
The Facilities Manager is responsible for the effective management, maintenance, safety, and security of the school's premises and grounds. The postholder will ensure that the school environment is safe, compliant, well-maintained, and fit for purpose for pupils, staff, visitors, and external contractors.
Key Responsibilities
Premises and Facilities Management
- Oversee the day-to-day operation and maintenance of all school buildings and grounds.
- Develop and implement planned preventative maintenance programmes.
- Manage repairs, refurbishments, and improvement projects.
- Ensure school facilities are maintained to a high standard.
- Monitor utility usage and implement cost-saving and sustainability initiatives.
Health, Safety and Compliance
- Ensure compliance with Health & Safety legislation and school policies.
- Manage site risk assessments and maintain accurate records.
- Oversee statutory inspections including fire safety, legionella testing, asbestos management, emergency lighting, and electrical testing.
- Lead on premises-related health and safety matters and respond to emergencies as required.
- Ensure all contractors comply with safeguarding and health and safety requirements whilst on site.
Security and Safeguarding
- Manage site security including access control, CCTV, alarms, locks, and key holding responsibilities.
- Ensure the school is opened and secured in accordance with operational requirements.
- Support the school's safeguarding procedures by maintaining a secure environment for pupils and staff.
Contractor and Supplier Management
- Procure and manage external contractors and service providers.
- Monitor contractor performance and service level agreements.
- Obtain quotations and ensure value for money in procurement activities.
- Manage facilities-related budgets and expenditure.
Team Management
- Supervise caretaking, cleaning, maintenance, and site staff.
- Organise staff rotas, allocate duties, and monitor performance.
- Support recruitment, training, and development of facilities personnel.
Event and Lettings Support
- Coordinate facilities support for school events, examinations, and community lettings.
- Ensure rooms and equipment are prepared and maintained for scheduled activities.
- Facilitate out-of-hours access where required.
Person Specification
Essential
- Previous experience managing facilities, estates, or premises within a school, education, healthcare, or commercial environment.
- Strong knowledge of Health & Safety legislation and statutory compliance requirements.
- Experience managing contractors, budgets, and maintenance programmes.
- Excellent organisational and communication skills.
- Ability to prioritise workloads and respond effectively to emergencies.
- Competent IT skills, including Microsoft Office applications.
- Enhanced DBS check and commitment to safeguarding children.
Desirable
- IOSH or NEBOSH Health & Safety qualification.
- Facilities Management qualification (IWFM or equivalent).
- Experience working within an educational setting.
- Knowledge of safeguarding requirements within schools.
Benefits
- Local Government Pension Scheme (where applicable).
- Generous annual leave entitlement.
- Ongoing training and professional development.
- Opportunity to work within a supportive educational environment.
- Employee wellbeing and assistance programmes.
The successful candidate will be expected to promote and safeguard the welfare of children and young people and will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.
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