We are now seeking an experienced Head of Property and Facilities to provide strategic leadership and operational oversight of our unique and complex estate. This is a pivotal senior role, combining stewardship of a nationally important heritage building with responsibility for ensuring a safe, compliant and welcoming environment for staff, visitors, tenants and commercial partners. This is a rare opportunity to play a leading role in the stewardship of one of the UK’s most important scientific and cultural buildings, supporting a mission that has inspired curiosity and discovery for over two centuries. You’ll work in a collaborative, values‑driven organisation where your expertise will have real and lasting impact.
Reporting to the Director of Finance and Resources, you will lead the Property and Facilities function, overseeing a team responsible for the day‑to‑day operation, maintenance and long‑term development of the building. You will balance conservation-led decision‑making with modern operational demands, ensuring the building supports the Ri’s charitable mission, public programmes and commercial activities.
This is a highly influential position, requiring strong leadership, sound technical knowledge and the confidence to operate across strategic planning, capital delivery, compliance and stakeholder management.
Key responsibilities will include:
* Developing and delivering a long‑term property and facilities strategy, informed by condition surveys and the Conservation Management Plan
* Acting as custodian of the Grade I listed building, safeguarding its heritage while enabling an active, multi‑use environment
* Overseeing all facilities management services, including hard services, health and safety, fire safety and statutory compliance
* Leading capital works, refurbishment and sustainability projects, ensuring strong governance, value for money and timely delivery
* Managing property and facilities budgets, procurement, tenders and insurance
* Building effective relationships with internal stakeholders, tenants, consultants and contractors
* Leading, developing and motivating the Property and Facilities team, promoting a proactive and service‑focused culture
About you
You will bring significant senior‑level experience in property and facilities management, ideally within a heritage, cultural or public‑facing environment. You will be confident managing complex buildings, multiple stakeholders and competing priorities, and comfortable operating at both strategic and operational levels. You will also bring a strong knowledge of building systems and statutory compliance, and a proven experience of financial management, capital projects and team leadership.
Application process
The Management Recruitment Group has been exclusively retained for this appointment. All direct and third‑party applications will be forwarded to them.
Applications should include an up‑to‑date CV and a supporting statement outlining your motivations and suitability for the role.
Please send applications to Rob Cullum at The Management Recruitment Group.
Closing date for applications is: 11:59pm on Sunday 31st May 2026
Salary description
£65000.00 - £70000.00 per year