We are recruiting for an interim Head of Estates to join a vibrant museum in London, known for its eclectic collections and beautiful outdoor spaces. This organisation blends natural history, world cultures, into a unique visitor and educational experience.
As the interim Head of Estates it will be your role to lead the operational excellence of the estate and infrastructure across two unique sites in South East London.
This is a rare opportunity to play a pivotal role in the stewardship of a much-loved public institution, ensuring the buildings, grounds, and services support the mission, enhance visitor experience, and meet the highest standards of safety, sustainability, and presentation.
This interim Head of Estates role is starting in December and will include a full handover with the current post holder. You will be based on site 5 days per week (35 hours per week) and be joining the organisation at a busy time as they work to complete a number of capital works projects across the estate. As an interim this role will be paid weekly at a daily rate of c£300 (umbrella company rate).
As the interim Head of Estates, you will:
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Lead and manage all aspects of buildings and infrastructure services, including maintenance, health and safety, and security.
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Contribute to strategic planning and policy development, aligning Estates operations with the organisations aims and sustainability goals.
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Oversee the delivery of capital projects
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Ensure the Estates team provides seamless support for public programmes and commercial operations
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Manage budgets, contracts, and compliance with statutory regulations and public sector procurement standards.
For this interim Head of Estates role we are looking for an FM estates leader who likes to be challenged and who can quickly step in to ensure the smooth running of the estates team. You must be hands on with experience of managing an estate open the public, across hard services, security, projects and compliance. To ensure success in this role we are looking for:
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Significant experience in estates, infrastructure, and security management within a heritage, cultural, or public-facing environment. (This is essential for the role)
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A proven track record in delivering capital and maintenance projects.
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Strong knowledge of statutory compliance (CDM, H&S, planning, fire safety, sustainability).
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Excellent estates team leadership, budget management, and communication skills.
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Available for an immediate start
You will be joining an organisation that celebrates diversity, champions sustainability, and strives to create an inclusive and inspiring environment for staff and visitors alike. If you have managed the estate for another Museum or for buildings that are open to the public, please apply now!