Campus Development Director

University of Reading; Reading; On-site; GBP 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A renowned UK university seeks a Campus Development Director to lead and oversee major construction projects, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives and sustainability principles. The ideal candidate will possess significant leadership experience and a relevant degree, coupled with strong strategic and project management skills. Join us to shape the future of our campuses and contribute to a collaborative, innovative environment with excellent benefits, including a competitive salary and generous leave.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Exceptional pension scheme

Generous annual leave

Professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• Proven leader with experience managing large-scale projects.
• Extensive knowledge of construction and project management best practices.
• Desirable: MSc/MBA and experience in sustainability frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Campus Development Department overseeing major projects.
• Ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget.
• Embed sustainability principles in campus planning.

Skills

Strong strategic thinking

Financial management

Interpersonal and stakeholder engagement

Leadership experience

Education

Relevant degree

UK professional qualification (e.g., RICS, CIOB, RIBA)

Tools

Project/programme management qualifications

Job description

This is a full time, permanent role.

Closing date: 23:59 on 5th January 2026.

Interview date: w/c 19 Jan 2026 or 26 Jan 2026.

Due to the complexity of the Skilled Worker Visa route and eligibility criteria, applicants requiring sponsorship are recommended to check their eligibility on the Home Office website. We cannot provide advice to candidates at the application stage and will only discuss visa routes with candidates who are invited to interview.

The University of Reading is seeking to appoint a Campus Development Director to lead the development of our outstanding campuses across the University’s diverse estate.

The University of Reading has been at the forefront of UK Higher Education for nearly a Century. We are a global university that enjoys a world-class reputation for teaching, research and enterprise. Key to the University’s success is its Estate - the campuses in Reading and Henley have regularly been voted one of the best university green space in the UK serving over 19,000 students and nearly 4,000 staff.

About The Role

A rare opportunity has arisen to shape the future of Campus provision at the University. Reporting to the Director of Estates, the Campus Development Director will:

• Lead the Campus Development Department, overseeing all major construction and infrastructure projects.
• Translate the University’s strategic objectives into a deliverable campus development portfolio.
• Ensure projects and programmes are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.
• Embed sustainability principles and align with our Decarbonisation Plan.

What we are looking for

• A proven leader with experience managing large-scale projects and programmes in complex, multi-stakeholder environments.
• Strong strategic thinking and financial management skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and stakeholder engagement abilities.
• A relevant degree and UK professional qualification (e.g., RICS, CIOB, RIBA).
• Extensive knowledge of construction, procurement, and project management best practices.

Desirable: MSc/MBA, project/programme management qualifications, and experience in sustainability frameworks (e.g., BREEAM).

We are seeking an individual that has senior-level leadership experience within complex organisations, with a proven ability to inspire and lead a substantial in-house staff cohort, ranging from senior managers to operational professionals. They will possess excellent interpersonal, communication and stakeholder management skills, coupled with a dynamic yet collaborative disposition.

Why Join Us?

• Play a pivotal role in shaping the University’s estate for future generations.
• Work in a collaborative environment that values innovation and sustainability.
• Competitive salary and benefits package, including an exceptional USS pension (www.uss.co.uk), generous annual leave (40 days including university closure days and public holidays).
• Opportunities for professional development.

Contact Name: Andrew Casselden

Job Title: Director of Estates

Email address: [e-mail]

The University is committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce, supports the gender equality Athena SWAN Charter and the Race Equality Charter, and champions LGBT+ equality. We are a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2). Applications for job-share, part-time and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs.