Head of Estates

RG Setsquare; Easter Howgate; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading independent team in Edinburgh is seeking an experienced Head of Facilities to oversee all operations, including maintenance, cleaning, and security. This role requires strong leadership and organizational skills, alongside a commitment to health & safety compliance and sustainability initiatives. Ideal candidates will have a background in facilities management and be proficient in relevant systems. Join a supportive environment at one of Edinburgh's top private schools.

Benefits

Supportive working culture

Strong leadership

Qualifications

• Proven experience managing a team in a customer-focused environment.
• Strong facilities or maintenance background required.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and leadership skills needed.
• Budget management and supplier procurement experience essential.
• Strong understanding of Health & Safety legislation and compliance.

Responsibilities

• Leading and developing the Facilities team.
• Overseeing all facilities operations including maintenance and security.
• Managing health & safety across the campus.
• Monitoring and delivering preventative maintenance projects.
• Supporting sustainability initiatives.

Skills

Customer-focused management

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Team leadership

Budget management

Health & Safety compliance

Tools

Microsoft Office

Facilities helpdesk systems

Job description

Head of Facilities

Location: Edinburgh

Contract: Full-time, Permanent

An excellent opportunity has arisen for a proactive and experienced Head of Facilities to join a leading independent team.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading and developing a high-performing Facilities team (maintenance, janitorial, and grounds)
• Overseeing all facilities operations including maintenance, cleaning, transport, lettings and security
• Managing health & safety across the campus, ensuring compliance and best practice
• Monitoring and delivering planned preventative maintenance and capital projects
• Supporting sustainability initiatives and the school's net-zero objectives
• Managing budgets, contracts, procurement and risk assessments
• Ensuring smooth delivery of major school events and external lettings

About the Role:

Reporting to the Business Director, the Head of Facilities plays a crucial leadership role in the effective and safe running of the school site. You will be a visible and approachable figure, ensuring high standards are maintained across the campus and that the needs of staff, pupils and visitors are consistently met.

This is a varied and hands‑on role, requiring excellent organisational, communication and leadership skills. You will also be part of the out‑of‑hours emergency rota and contribute to operational planning at a senior level.

Essential Requirements:

• Proven experience managing a team in a customer‑focused environment
• Strong facilities or maintenance background
• Excellent organisational and planning abilities
• Confident communicator and team leader
• Budget management and supplier procurement experience
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and facilities helpdesk systems
• Strong understanding of Health & Safety legislation and compliance
• Flexible, calm under pressure, and comfortable with hands‑on tasks

Desirable:

• Technical trade background
• Experience delivering capital or refurbishment projects
• Knowledge of school operations or educational settings

Why Work With Us?

This is a unique opportunity to shape and maintain the working environment of a prestigious private school while contributing to long‑term improvements and sustainability goals. The school offers a supportive working culture, strong leadership, and an attractive location in one of Edinburgh's most desirable areas.

RG Setsquare is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.