"Head of Built Environment"

Ready to shape the future of a vibrant, ambitious, and ever-evolving university campus? The University of Surrey is on the lookout for a dynamic Head of Built Environment — a leader with vision, drive, and a passion for creating exceptional spaces where people learn, live, and thrive.

If you’re a capital projects professional eager to step up, take charge, and leave a lasting mark on a major UK university, this is your moment.

Why this role matters

You’ll be the strategic force behind our built environment — leading the capital project management team responsible for transforming ideas into inspiring, functional, and future-ready spaces. From major construction and refurbishment programmes to sustainability-led developments, you’ll guide projects that shape the daily experience of thousands of students, staff, and visitors.

This is a high-profile leadership role with real influence, real variety, and real impact.

What you’ll be doing

• Steering the University’s capital works programme with confidence, clarity, and creativity
• Championing customer-focused project delivery and empowering stakeholders with transparent, open processes
• Driving best value through smart procurement, strong consultant partnerships, and seamless collaboration with engineering, planning, sustainability, and space teams
• Ensuring every project meets the highest standards of compliance, safety, and environmental responsibility
• Leading the Project Team’s Health & Safety Assurance function and promoting best practice across all activities
• Building strong, positive relationships across Estates & Facilities to deliver joined‑up, high‑quality outcomes

What we’re looking for

You’ll thrive here if you:

• Have experience leading construction project teams
• Are ready to step into a senior leadership role with strategic influence
• Bring a track record of delivering major capital projects in complex environments
• Understand the JCT 2024 Suite of Contracts
• Know how to get the best from external consultants
• Lead with collaboration, professionalism, and a solutions-first mindset
• Are motivated to grow, innovate, and help shape the future of a major organisation’s estate

You don’t need to have been a Head of Service before — if you’re ready for the next step and committed to developing your leadership, we want to hear from you.

Why Surrey?

Because this is more than a job — it’s a chance to make a meaningful difference.

Our 1960s campus is a fascinating blend of architectural styles and building types, supporting world-class teaching and research across science, engineering, health, and the arts. You’ll help us modernise, reimagine, and future-proof these spaces while contributing to our ambitious climate and sustainability goals.

And let’s be honest — it’s simply a gorgeous place to work. Think leafy walkways, curated gardens, green playing fields, and a sparkling lake at the heart of campus. Add in a buzzing student community, global outlook, and a genuinely supportive culture, and you’ve got a workplace that feels alive with ideas and possibility.

What we offer

• 25 days annual leave + 7 University closure days + bank holidays
• Competitive pension scheme
• Ongoing training and development
• Flexible, hybrid working
• On-site discounted nursery/childcare
• Electric vehicle leasing scheme
• Discounted Surrey Sports Park membership

How to apply

Submit your CV and a covering letter via the University of Surrey website, outlining why you’re the perfect fit.

For an informal conversation, contact:

Marco Holness, Director of Estates and Facilities

m.holness@surrey.ac.uk

Interviews: TBC 2026

Further details

Job Description