Head of Estates & Commercial

Role: Head of Estates & Commercial

Location: The Forum, Norwich, Norfolk

Salary: Competitive Basic & Benefits

The Forum is a renowned and iconic Millennium Commission building dedicated to enriching the community and delivering exceptional public services. They are seeking an experienced and dynamic individual to join its team as Head of Estates & Commercial. This is a pivotal leadership role within The Forum Trust, where you will oversee the management of its estates, commercial operations, and tenant relations, ensuring their building continues to thrive as a leading public asset.

Scope of the Role:

As the Head of Estates & Commercial, you will be responsible for the efficient and effective operation of The Forum Trust’s buildings and commercial enterprises. Your role will include overseeing property management, managing key contracts and projects, and ensuring the success of the car park and commercial hire business streams. You will report directly to the Chief Executive and work closely with the management team to present updates and strategic plans to the Board.

You will lead a talented team, including the Facilities Manager, Assistant Facilities Manager, and the Customer Services team, all while maintaining the high standards that The Forum Trust is known for.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Management:

- Lead and support the management team to develop and execute The Forum Trust’s strategic objectives.

- Advise the Board on legal, political, and industry trends impacting the Trust.

- Recruit, train, and manage a high-performing team to ensure smooth and efficient building operations 24/7.

- Oversee budget preparation for Sinking Fund, Car Park, Service Charge, and other relevant areas.

- Promote a positive team culture and support ongoing training initiatives.

Estates Management:

- Lead the procurement and management of contracts to ensure value for money and compliance with Trust policies.

- Ensure the building meets health and safety regulations, maintaining the highest standards of safety and security.

- Manage building projects from initiation to completion.

- Coordinate with local police and other agencies to ensure effective security and emergency response plans.

- Maintain statutory licences and manage facilities contracts to ensure smooth operations.

Tenant & Commercial Management:

- Act as the primary point of contact for tenants, managing leases, rent reviews, and new lease negotiations.

- Regularly liaise with tenants and chair Occupiers’ Association meetings.

- Maximise revenue from the Forum’s car park and commercial hire business streams by identifying growth opportunities and driving improvements.

- Manage commercial hire agreements, optimising the use of internal and external spaces for maximum revenue potential.

Other Responsibilities:

- Oversee the Forum’s IT contracts and service provider, ensuring technology is continually advancing.

- Provide support for any additional activities or projects in line with the Trust’s needs.

Key Requirements:

- Proven experience in estates management, property, or facilities management.

- Strong leadership and team management skills, with a track record of motivating and developing teams.

- Experience in managing commercial contracts and driving revenue-generating initiatives.

- Knowledge of health and safety legislation and best practices.

- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to negotiate and resolve issues effectively.

- Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

- A commitment to sustainability and driving the Trust’s Net Zero initiatives.

Why Join The Forum?

The Forum Trust is a unique and prestigious organisation, and this is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in shaping its future. As Head of Estates & Commercial, you’ll have the chance to influence the strategic direction of the Trust, ensuring it remains a thriving community asset for years to come. We offer a supportive and collaborative work environment where your contributions will be valued, along with competitive compensation and benefits.

How to Apply:

Please send your CV and a covering letter to TMS Search & Selection outlining your experience and suitability for the role. For further information please contact Mike Sedgwick

The Forum Trust is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.