Interim Director of Infrastructure (Higher Education) 

Location: London | Duration: 3-6 month Interim | Start: Early January 2027 

Client: A leading London university (named to shortlisted candidates only)  

Rate: Negotioable

Location: London - Hybrid

Ref: INT-INFRA-0127 

The Opportunity 

Our client is a well-regarded, diverse London university with a strong civic mission. It is looking for an experienced interim leader to take charge of its Infrastructure function from January 2027.

What does the role entail?

You will lead estates operations across a multi-campus estate, including facilities management, maintenance, security and sustainability. You will provide continuity and strong leadership, keep services running at a high standard, and prepare for the permanent solution. 

This is a high-visibility role, working directly with the university’s senior executive team. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Lead strategic and operational delivery across hard and soft FM, planned and reactive maintenance, security and campus services. 
• Lead and support an established team through a period of transition. 
• Ensure compliance with health and safety, fire, water, asbestos, gas and electrical requirements. 
• Manage service contracts and suppliers, driving performance and value for money. 
• Own the operational budget and report to the senior executive team. 
• Support the university’s sustainability and net zero ambitions. 
• Work closely with capital projects and estates development colleagues. 

About You 

• Senior estates, facilities or infrastructure leadership in higher education or another complex, multi-site organisation. 
• Strong command of statutory compliance and building safety. 
• Experience managing significant budgets and outsourced contracts. 
• Ability to lead people through change and engage at executive level. 
• Available from early January 2027. 
• Previous interim experience and professional membership (MRICS, CIOB, IWFM, CMIOSH or similar) desirable.