Assistant Director of Facilities Management

Guardian Jobs; Richmond; On-site; CAD 185,000 - 219,000; Full time

Job summary

A public sector organization is seeking an Assistant Director of Facilities Management to oversee operations across multiple locations. The ideal candidate will lead a large team, ensure safety and compliance, and drive innovation in facilities management. The role offers a salary range of £99,084 - £116,847 and requires strong leadership within a complex environment.

Qualifications

• Strong track record of leadership in facilities management, ideally in a complex public sector.
• Deep understanding of strategic and operational FM with experience managing teams and contractors.
• Ability to navigate competing priorities and foster collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic direction and operational delivery of facilities management.
• Ensure properties are safe, compliant, and drive forward innovation.
• Manage significant budgets and conduct complex change programmes.

Skills

Leadership in facilities management

Strategic and operational FM knowledge

Communication and relationship building

Job description

Overview

Assistant Director of Facilities Management

We are looking for a bold, inclusive and visionary leader to take on the role of Assistant Director of Facilities Management for Richmond & Wandsworth Councils. This is a rare and exciting opportunity to shape the future of facilities management across two dynamic London boroughs, leading a committed team of around 70 staff and overseeing a diverse and complex estate of more than 500 properties. The role offers the chance to influence how our spaces support public services, community wellbeing and environmental sustainability, ensuring our buildings are not only well-managed but actively contribute to our wider strategic goals and support income generation for both Councils.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic direction and operational delivery of facilities management across a wide range of corporate and operational sites, including civic and staff offices, depots, libraries and other community buildings.
• Ensure properties are safe, compliant and resilient, while driving forward innovation in areas such as energy efficiency, digital infrastructure and sustainable design.
• Lead statutory compliance, health and safety and emergency planning, embedding a culture of continuous improvement and customer focus.
• Act as a trusted adviser to senior officers and elected Members, providing expert guidance on all aspects of facilities management and contributing to wider corporate priorities.
• Manage significant budgets and contracts, lead complex change programmes, and collaborate with internal and external partners to deliver efficient, responsive services aligned with Net Zero carbon emissions by 2030.
• Ensure FM services are value-for-money, future-ready, agile and accountable to meet evolving community needs.

Qualifications

• Strong track record of leadership in facilities management, ideally within a complex public sector or multi-site environment.
• Deep understanding of strategic and operational FM, with experience managing in-house teams and external contractors.
• Ability to navigate competing priorities, communicate with clarity, and build relationships that foster collaboration and innovation.

Salary and how to apply

Salary : £99,084 - £116,847

We are looking for someone who will lead by example, drive meaningful change, and make a lasting impact in a role that combines strategic leadership with operational delivery.

For more information, visit our microsite by clicking Apply and contact our search partners Ben Parsonage ([e-mail]) or Delicia Coutinho ([e-mail]) at Gatenby Sanderson.

Closing Date Sunday 5th October