Head of Estates

Summary To lead and implement the Trust’s Estates strategy including asset management, risk, compliance and capital project programmes. To provide operational leadership of all matters relating to the Trust’s premises, facilities and Health and Safety, including oversight for ensuring the operational implementation of associated Trust wide policies and procedures. Responsible to: CFOO (with strategic accountability to the CEO) Responsible for: Estates & Premises Teams across Trust schools; external contractors Location: Trust-wide (multi‑site responsibilities) Contract: Full‑time, all‑year round 1. Role Purpose The Head of Estates provides Trust‑wide leadership for the strategic and operational management of all Mercian Educational Trust buildings, land, and associated services. The postholder will: Lead and implement the Trust’s Estates Strategy in line with DfE Good Estate Management for Schools (GEMS) guidance. Ensure full statutory compliance across the estate, including health and safety, planned maintenance, and asset management. Lead capital project planning and delivery. Oversee risk management, resilience, energy efficiency, and security. Provide professional leadership, support and challenge to school leaders and estates staff. The Head of Estates is the Trust’s Estates Compliance Lead, working with school‑based Responsible Persons to ensure legal compliance and high standards across all sites. 2. Key Areas of Responsibility A. Strategic Estate Leadership Lead, review and deliver the Trust’s Estates Strategy in line with DfE GEMS. Provide strategic and operational guidance to Headteachers, Site Managers and the central team. Develop and maintain Trust-wide estate policies, procedures and Standard Operating Procedures. Lead the development of planned preventative maintenance (PPM) programmes. Maintain the Trust’s asset management database and ensure accurate, up‑to‑date records. B. Statutory Compliance, Risk & Assurance The postholder will act as the Trust’s Competent Person for estates-related Health & Safety, excluding areas where the Trust appoints external specialists. Oversee Trust-wide compliance for: Asbestos management Fire safety (working with school‑based Responsible Persons) Legionella and water hygiene Electrical safety Gas safety Playground and equipment safety Working at height Contractor safety and permits to work Conduct regular estate audits, identify non‑compliance, and ensure corrective actions are implemented. Monitor legislative changes and ensure Trust policies reflect them. Report risk status to the CEO, CFOO and Trust Board. Responsible Person (RP) Clarification: Schools retain RP status for Fire Safety and day‑to‑day H&S. The Head of Estates provides assurance, systems oversight and professional direction. C. Cap