Head of Strategic Estates Programmes

National Physical Laboratory; Greater London; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institution in Greater London is seeking a strategic leader for their Estates team. The ideal candidate will drive the delivery of estates programmes, manage a team, and ensure alignment with governmental standards and organizational priorities. A degree in a related field and experience in programme management are essential. The role offers opportunities for leadership in a dynamic environment focused on science and innovation.

Qualifications

• Experience in critical and complex environments.
• Knowledge of the RIBA Plan of Work in practice.
• Ability to deliver to Government Functional Standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead delivery of strategic estates programmes.
• Oversee construction and transformation projects.
• Align initiatives with organizational priorities.

Skills

Programme and portfolio management

Construction and estates contracts knowledge

Analytical thinking

Stakeholder relationship building

Leadership

Communication

Education

Degree in Engineering, Economics, Finance, or related field

Job description

Join NPL’s Estates team and help shape the future of our built environment. We’re looking for a strategic leader to drive the delivery of estates programmes that support world‑class science and innovation. In this role, you’ll manage a team of colleagues, providing leadership and guidance to ensure successful programme delivery. You’ll report directly to the Head of Estates and work closely with them to support the department, deputising when the need arises.

Our Estates team ensures NPL provides a safe, secure, and sustainable workplace. We focus on maximising the value of our buildings and facilities to support our people, programmes, and long‑term goals.

What You’ll Be Doing

As part of the Senior Leadership Team, you’ll:

• Lead the delivery of strategic estates programmes, ensuring compliance with CDM, procurement, and public finance regulations.
• Oversee construction and transformation projects using effective delivery models and commercial frameworks.
• Align estates initiatives with organisational priorities and allocate resources for agile, impactful delivery.
• Champion operational excellence, continuous improvement, and robust governance across health, safety, security, and environmental standards.
• Build strong relationships with stakeholders across government and industry, representing NPL externally.
• Drive the performance and potential of employees, building a highly motivated, customer focused and high performing team.
• Collaborate across teams to foster a unified, inclusive culture and deliver transformation programmes that meet business needs.

Requirements & Fit

You’ll bring a blend of technical expertise, leadership, and strategic thinking. We’re looking for someone who can:

• Bring their experience of programme and portfolio management in critical and complex environments.
• Apply their knowledge and experience of construction and estates contracts and frameworks.
• Apply the RIBA Plan of Work in real‑world settings.
• Deliver Estates to Government Functional Standards (Including GovS002 and GovS004).
• Develop and implement Strategic Asset Management and Site Master Plans.
• Communicate effectively and think analytically.
• Hold a degree (or equivalent experience) in Engineering, Economics, Finance, or a related field.

We actively recruit citizens of all backgrounds, but the nature of our work in specific departments means that nationality, residency and security requirements can be more tightly defined than others. You will be asked about this throughout the recruitment process. To work at NPL, you will need to obtain BPSS security clearance.

Please note: Applications will be reviewed, and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert therefore we may at any time bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as possible.