Deputy Director of Estates (UK Sponsorship)

Job Description

About the Role

The University of Sussex is seeking an experienced Deputy Director of Estates & Facilities Management to lead the strategic development and delivery of estate and infrastructure projects across its campus.

Reporting to the Director of Estates, Facilities Management & Commercial Services, you will oversee the planning, management, and execution of estate operations. This includes working closely with internal departments and external partners such as Sussex Estates and Facilities (SEF) and Chartwells to ensure efficient, high-quality service delivery.

The role plays a critical part in delivering large-scale capital projects, enhancing campus infrastructure, and supporting the University’s long-term sustainability and operational goals.

Strategic Context

The University is investing in major campus developments, including student accommodation, teaching spaces, and sustainability initiatives. These projects align with national priorities around infrastructure, sustainability, and building safety, supported by UK government frameworks such as:

• UK infrastructure strategy
  Construction and building guidance
  Building safety regulations
  Workplace health and safety
  Energy efficiency and sustainability
  Net zero and sustainability strategy
  Facilities management and public estate guidance
  Planning and development permissions

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the strategic planning and operational delivery of estate services across the University
  Develop and implement estate masterplans, asset investment programmes, and infrastructure strategies
  Oversee major capital and refurbishment projects across a diverse estate portfolio
  Ensure effective facilities management services, either directly or through contractors
  Manage relationships with internal stakeholders and external partners
  Drive sustainability initiatives and contribute to achieving environmental targets
  Lead and develop senior teams to deliver high-performance estate services

About You

You will bring:

• Extensive senior-level experience in estates management, property development, or facilities management
  Proven expertise in master planning, real estate strategy, and asset lifecycle management
  Strong leadership skills with experience managing complex, multi-stakeholder environments
  Knowledge of building services, compliance, and estate operations across varied property types
  Experience delivering large-scale transformation programmes
  A relevant degree or equivalent professional experience
  Membership (or willingness to work towards) a professional body such as IWFM, RICS, or CIBSE

About the Division

The Estates, Facilities and Commercial Services Division is responsible for maintaining and enhancing the University’s campus environment.

Recent and ongoing developments include:

• East Slope student accommodation project
  West Slope development (housing, learning, and wellbeing spaces)
  Sustainability Sussex initiative, aiming to position the University as a global leader in sustainability

Why Join Sussex?

• Beautiful campus located near the South Downs
  Excellent transport links, including Falmer train station
  Supportive and inclusive working environment
  Opportunity to lead high-impact, large-scale infrastructure projects

Additional Information

Closing Date: 4 May 2026
Start Date: To be confirmed

Eligibility & Sponsorship

This role may be eligible for a Skilled Worker visa

SOC Code: 1251 (Property, housing and estate managers)
Salary thresholds and eligibility rules apply depending on individual circumstances