Revolutionising Campus Excellence: The Strategic Leadership Behind South Bank Colleges' Head of Estates Appointment

We are proud to announce the successful placement of the Head of Estates at South Bank Colleges. This role is pivotal in ensuring the efficient management and strategic development of the college’s facilities. Below is a detailed overview of the responsibilities undertaken by the new Head of Estates, demonstrating the breadth and complexity of the role.

Key Responsibilities and Achievements

1. Comprehensive Facilities Management:

• Oversaw facilities management and implemented a robust Planned Preventive Maintenance (PPM) regime, ensuring full compliance across three sites spanning 52,000 square meters.

• Streamlined FM responsibilities to maximize the existing talent pool, boosting morale and ownership of statutory tasks among the estates team through engagement and training initiatives.

2. Contract Negotiations and Maintenance Improvements:

• Negotiated improved maintenance contracts, particularly focusing on Mechanical & Electrical (M&E) disciplines and water hygiene, resulting in cost savings and enhanced service quality.

• Provided strategic solutions for future college developments, ensuring sustainable and cost-effective maintenance options.

3. Strategic Planning and Development:

• Liaised with Department for Education (DfE) subcontractors and project managers to finalize plans for a shared unit within a new building proposal.

• Regularly attended meetings with key stakeholders, including the College Principal, Council Planning representatives, and the Principal Contractor, to discuss development works at the Nine Elms Skills Centre in Vauxhall.

4. Project Management and Compliance:

• Managed the transition from the Vauxhall campus to the Clapham campus, overseeing subsequent building works and strategic involvement in the £500 million development project.

• Conducted a full compliance review of statutory requirements, implementing an action plan for remedial works governed by a risk register.

5. Strategic Involvement in Mergers and Alignments:

• Assisted with the proposed merger with London South Bank University, aligning shared estates responsibilities to ensure seamless integration.

• Managed the general estates framework, encompassing commercial ventures, maintenance disciplines (hard and soft), site security, and logistics.

Conclusion

The appointment of the Head of Estates at Lambeth College highlights our expertise in identifying and placing candidates who can drive strategic initiatives and operational excellence. This role is instrumental in ensuring that Lambeth College’s facilities are managed efficiently and sustainably, supporting the college’s mission and future growth.

We look forward to continuing our partnership with Lambeth College and contributing to their ongoing success.