Director of Operations, Facilities and Project Management

The Director of Facilities, Operations, and Project Management at Harrow School will serve as a strategic leader responsible for the effective management of facilities, operations, and the successful execution of projects. This role involves overseeing the maintenance of the school's historic campus, ensuring efficient daily operations, and managing construction and improvement projects. The ideal candidate will bring a wealth of experience in facilities management, operations, and project management, combined with a keen understanding of educational environments.Key Responsibilities:1 Strategic Facilities Planning:Develop and implement a comprehensive facilities management plan aligned with Harrow School's mission and strategic objectives.Collaborate with school leadership to ensure facilities planning supports the evolving needs of the institution.2 Facilities Maintenance and Operations:Oversee the day-to-day maintenance, repair, and operational functions of the school's facilities, including historic buildings, classrooms, sports facilities, and common areas.Implement preventive maintenance programs to preserve the integrity of the campus.3 Project Management:Lead capital, infrastructure, and improvement projects from concept to completion, ensuring delivery within scope, budget, and timeline.Develop project plans, budgets, and timelines, ensuring adherence to quality standards and regulatory requirements.Coordinate internal teams during project execution to minimize academic disruption.4 Operational Efficiency:Streamline and optimize operational processes to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.Develop and monitor Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all operational areas.Collaborate with various departments to understand and address operational needs.5 Budget Management:Develop and manage the facilities and operations budget, ensuring financial sustainability and responsible resource allocation.Monitor budget performance and provide regular reports to school leadership.6 Vendor Management:Oversee relationships with external vendors, contractors, and service providers.Negotiate contracts, monitor service levels, and ensure compliance with established standards.Establish Service Level Agreements (SLAs) and conduct periodic vendor performance reviews.Implement transparent and cost-effective procurement practices.7 Compliance and Safety:Stay abreast of relevant regulations and standards related to facilities management and project execution.Maintain updated licenses, certifications, and documentation required by regulatory bodies.Oversee fire safety, first aid, and emergency preparedness across all school buildings.Implement and review the school’s crisis management and emergency response plans.Ensure the school's compliance with safety, environmental, and building codes.Ensure safe transport operations, including route safety audits, vehicle maintenance, and driver training.Safeguarding and Child Protection:Ensure all operational policies and practices uphold the school’s Child Safeguarding and Protection Policy.Conduct regular risk assessments to identify and mitigate potential safeguarding or safety hazards in the campus environment.Train operations and facility staff on child safeguarding, professional boundaries, and appropriate behaviour.Ensure that all physical spaces are designed and monitored to minimize risk (CCTV coverage, restricted access areas, gender-sensitive facilities, secure drop-off/pick-up zones, etc.).Work closely with the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) to report and respond promptly to any safeguarding concerns.Maintain incident logs and participate in safeguarding audits or compliance reviews.8 Stakeholder Communication:Communicate effectively with various stakeholders, including staff, parents, and the broader school community.Provide regular updates on facilities-related matters and ongoing projects.Qualifications & ExperienceBachelor's degree in Facilities Management, Project Management, or a related field; Master's degree preferred.Extensive experience in facilities management, operations, and project management, preferably in an educational setting.Proven leadership and strategic planning skills.Strong project management and organizational skills.Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.Familiarity with historical preservation practices is an asset.Strong knowledge of safeguarding, safety, and statutory compliance.Experience in international or IB/IGCSE school environments preferred.Minimum 15 years of experience in operations/facilities management, preferably within educational and hospitality.