Lead Technical FM Manager - Critical Facilities & M&E

Wates; Southampton; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Wates is seeking an experienced Technical Services Manager to lead M&E and building services across the Hampshire Blue Light Contract. You will ensure safety, compliance, and efficient delivery of critical facilities in a high-profile emergency services portfolio.

You will provide technical leadership, manage contractors and stakeholders, and drive continuous improvement within a fast-paced FM environment. DBS checks are required at offer stage and driving licence is essential.

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of mechanical and electrical building services within a facilities management environment.
• Experience managing compliance and statutory obligations across complex estates.
• Ability to interpret technical documentation, specifications and engineering standards.
• Experience of managing specialist contractors and supply chain partners.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Strong problem-solving and decision‑making capabilities.
• Full UK driving licence.
• Enhanced and Barred Lists DBS check at offer stage with additional checks if required.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical leadership across all M&E and building services activities.
• Ensure statutory compliance and technical governance across the contract estate.
• Support the delivery of planned preventative maintenance, reactive works and lifecycle projects.
• Review and approve technical proposals, specifications, reports and engineering solutions.
• Monitor contractor performance and ensure works are completed safely, compliantly and to the required standards.
• Lead technical investigations, root cause analysis and resolution of complex engineering issues.
• Support audits and inspections while driving continual improvement initiatives.
• Manage technical risk and ensure robust asset management practices are in place.
• Build strong relationships with client representatives, operational teams and supply chain partners.
• Contribute to budget management, forecasting and value-for-money initiatives.

Skills

M&E building services knowledge

Stakeholder management

Compliance governance

Project/lifecycle management

Budgeting & cost control

Contractor management

Driving licence

Education

HNC/HND or Degree in Mechanical, Electrical or Building Services Engineering

Professional membership IEng/CEng/IWFM/CIBSE/IET

Tools

CAFM systems

Job description

Wates is seeking an experienced Technical Services Manager to lead M&E and building services across the Hampshire Blue Light Contract. You will ensure safety, compliance, and efficient delivery of critical facilities in a high-profile emergency services portfolio.

You will provide technical leadership, manage contractors and stakeholders, and drive continuous improvement within a fast-paced FM environment. DBS checks are required at offer stage and driving licence is essential.