Facilities & Property Manager (4749656)

The South Downs National Park Authority are seeking a Facilities & Property Manager to join our Corporate Services team.

The South Downs National Park Authority (SDNPA) is the public body responsible for conserving and enhancing the natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural heritage of the South Downs. Covering over 1,600 km² of iconic landscapes, the Park stretches from Winchester to Eastbourne and includes vibrant communities, rich biodiversity, and historic landmarks.

We manage a diverse estate, acting as both landlord and occupier across a wide range of rural land and property assets. Our portfolio includes the iconic Seven Sisters Country Park, the South Downs Centre in Midhurst, and a variety of business spaces, storage facilities, visitor attractions, and residential cottages.

We’re embarking on exciting changes across our estate and are looking for a talented Facilities and Property Manager to join our Corporate Services team. This role can be based at either the South Downs Centre in Midhurst or Seven Sisters Country Park, with regular travel across both sites and the wider National Park. We also offer flexibility, including the option to work from home part of the week.

The Role 

The Facilities and Property Manager is a crucial role that will see you responsible for managing and delivering a comprehensive property and facilities service across our estate including all premises, offices and sites. You will have strategic oversight of the on-site facilities, responsible for implementing innovative ways to continuously improve the service and ensure that best value is achieved.

Ensuring the SDNPA estate and assets remain fit for purpose is a key priority. You will lead the effective management of property maintenance systems and maintain an accurate asset register. This role requires a strong focus on compliance, ensuring all activities meet legislative requirements and adhere to appropriate insurance standards.

Key Responsibilities –

• Deliver and manage property and facilities services across all SDNPA premises, ensuring compliance with legislation and high standards.
• Lead the negotiation, co-ordination and management of appropriate leases, contracts and Service Level Agreements.
• Manage and develop property maintenance systems and asset registers.
• Implement innovative solutions for continuous improvement and value for money.
• Oversee supplier performance and contractual agreements.
• Maintain statutory compliance, and ensure health, safety, and fire risk recommendations are implemented.
• Maintain adequate insurance arrangements, manage claims, and provide expert advice on facilities and office services.
• Work closely with internal teams and stakeholders to ensure that key objectives and strategies are met.
• Drive sustainability initiatives and review solutions to reduce carbon emissions.
• Line Management of a Facilities Delivery Officer.

What You’ll Need

• Hold a degree or equivalent qualification in Facilities Management, Property Management, or a related discipline.
• Desirably, hold a professional membership (e.g. IWFM / RICS).
• Currently working in a similar role and environment as a Facilities / Estates Manager.
• Proven experience in managing estates, facilities, and property services.
• Experience in negotiating property leases, contracts and supplier agreements.
• Knowledge of property maintenance systems and asset management.
• Ability to manage supplier performance and ensure statutory compliance.
• Sound understanding of health and safety regulations and fire safety compliance.
• Effective communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills for strategic decision-making.

What’s Included

• Starting salary - £48,241 per annum
• 27 days annual leave increasing to 30, plus bank holidays
• 19.7% Employer Pension Contribution
• Reimbursement of Professional Fees (one membership)
• Health care reimbursement plan, counselling and wellbeing discounts
• Access to Heat Scheme interest free loans
• Electric Vehicle lease scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Use of pool cars
• Family Friendly policies and flexible / hybrid working
• Inclusive working environment

What you need to do now

Hays Property and Surveying are supporting SDNPA with the recruitment for this role on a retained and exclusive basis.

For further information, or to have a confidential discussion, please contact our Southampton based Property and Surveying specialist Jamie Poll on 07800755744.

Contact information

South Downs National Park Authority

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