Background
Recently, we undertook the task of recruiting an Estates Manager for the prestigious Mill Hill School Foundation. This role was critical for the strategic planning and delivery of the Foundation’s major capital projects and Masterplan, as well as for the management, maintenance, repair, and improvement of all Foundation properties and grounds.
The Challenge
The primary challenge was to identify a candidate who could:
• Lead strategic projects and work with the Executive Team and professional advisors on matters related to the School’s Masterplan.
• Prepare plans for improvements, extensions, or new constructions and oversee the performance of appointed architects, consultants, and contractors.
• Manage minor works projects and ensure compliance with building regulations, health and safety standards, and environmental legislation.
• Develop and manage a planned maintenance schedule and electronic help desk system for repairs and maintenance requests.
• Oversee and manage the grounds, sports pitches, and gardens, ensuring safety and quality.
• Prepare and manage budgets, ensuring strict financial control and adherence to competitive tendering processes.
• Ensure regulatory compliance and best practices in testing and certification of service installations and equipment.
• Act as the Health and Safety Coordinator, reviewing accidents, updating risk assessments, and ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations.
• Manage utilities and waste, develop environmental policies, and seek efficient methods of operation.
• Oversee security systems and external security guards, ensuring the safe and secure operation of the Foundation’s site.
• Effectively manage the Estates Department, including maintenance and grounds staff, ensuring high standards of workmanship and customer service.
• Liaise with the community and Senior Management Team to facilitate planning and day-to-day operations of the school.
To meet Mill Hill School Foundation’s specific needs, we:
• Utilised our extensive network and industry knowledge to identify potential candidates with the required experience and qualifications.
• Conducted in-depth interviews to assess candidates’ technical competencies, problem-solving abilities, and cultural fit with Mill Hill School Foundation.
• Verified professional qualifications and past achievements, especially in strategic planning, project management, and compliance with health and safety standards.
• Presented a shortlist of highly qualified candidates to Mill Hill School Foundation for consideration.
The Results
We successfully placed a highly skilled Estates Manager who brought extensive experience and expertise to the role. The selected candidate demonstrated:
• Strong strategic planning and project management skills, with a proven ability to oversee major capital projects and Masterplan initiatives.
• Comprehensive understanding of health and safety regulations and the ability to ensure compliance across all Foundation properties.
• Effective budget management skills, ensuring financial control and cost efficiency.
• Proficiency in managing maintenance and improvement projects, ensuring minimal disruption to school activities.
• Strong leadership and communication skills, effectively managing the Estates Department and liaising with the Senior Management Team