Deputy Head of Grounds Maintenance(UK Sponsorship)
Job Description
About the Role
The University of Reading is looking for a motivated and forward-thinking professional to join its Estates team as Deputy Head of Grounds Maintenance. This is a key leadership role where you’ll help shape and maintain one of the UK’s most attractive university environments.
With three distinctive campuses—Whiteknights, London Road, and Greenlands—you’ll be contributing to landscapes that blend heritage, biodiversity, and modern sustainability. The Whiteknights campus, in particular, is nationally recognised for its Green Flag status and parkland setting.
What You’ll Be Doing
In this role, you’ll work closely with the Head of Grounds Maintenance to oversee day-to-day operations and long-term planning. Your responsibilities will include:
Leading and supporting grounds maintenance teams across multiple sites
Ensuring consistently high standards of landscaping and site presentation
Managing resources, schedules, and performance targets effectively
Embedding strong health and safety practices across all activities
Coordinating work between in-house teams, contractors, and volunteers
Supporting the upkeep of valued spaces like the Harris Garden
What We’re Looking For
We’re seeking someone who combines practical expertise with strong leadership skills. You should bring:
Experience in grounds maintenance, landscaping, or habitat management
Confidence in managing teams and motivating staff and volunteers
A solid understanding of workplace health and safety requirements
Good communication and customer service skills
The ability to work across a complex, multi-stakeholder environment
Experience in a similar organisation is helpful but not essential—what matters most is your ability to lead, organise, and improve services.
Working Environment
This is more than just a maintenance role—you’ll be contributing to a “University within a Park.” The campuses offer a unique blend of historic landscapes, formal gardens, and riverside settings, providing an inspiring place to work every day.
Application Guidance
When applying, ensure you clearly demonstrate how your skills and experience meet the requirements outlined in the person specification. Provide specific examples wherever possible.
Visa Information
If you require sponsorship to work in the UK, it’s important to review eligibility criteria before applying. Due to the complexity of visa requirements, discussions around sponsorship will only take place at the interview stage.
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
The University of Reading is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. It actively supports equality initiatives including the Athena SWAN Charter, Race Equality Charter, and LGBT+ inclusion. Flexible working options, including part-time and job-share arrangements, are welcomed.
