"Head of Mechanical Services"

University of Sheffield - Estates & Facilities Management

The University of Sheffield is seeking to appoint a Head of Mechanical Services to lead the strategic oversight, operational delivery, and continuous improvement of all mechanical services across our diverse estate. This is a key leadership role within the Engineering & Maintenance Team of Estates & Facilities Management, ensuring our mechanical infrastructure meets the highest standards of safety, legal compliance, and operational efficiency.

The University of Sheffield is a truly special place, with a bold and ambitious future. A leading global university renowned for the excellence, impact and the distinctiveness of its research-led learning and teaching across a wide range of disciplines, we are home to 30,000 of the brightest students and over 8,000 staff from more than 140 countries around the world. We want Sheffield to be an international centre of excellence for centuries to come, so we recruit ambitious, creative people from across the globe and we nurture their talent.

Reporting to the Associate Director of Engineering & Maintenance, you will manage all aspects of mechanical maintenance, inspection, and lifecycle planning, creating a safe and compliant environment that supports world-class teaching, research, and the student experience. You will lead a dedicated team of in-house professionals and trade staff, alongside specialist external contractors, and oversee projects ranging from minor repairs to major upgrades. Your remit includes developing and enforcing robust policies and standards for planned preventative maintenance and statutory compliance, while driving sustainability and resilience across the estate.

This is a varied and high-impact role, covering everything from heritage buildings to complex research facilities. We are looking for an experienced leader with a strong engineering background, Chartered or Incorporated Engineer status (or working towards it), and extensive expertise in managing mechanical systems such as HVAC, BMS, and piped services. You will bring proven knowledge of UK mechanical regulations, experience in asset management planning, and the ability to manage significant budgets and contracts.

Strong leadership and stakeholder engagement skills, and the ability to inspire teams and influence at senior levels are essential, as is a strategic and analytical mindset, capable of driving continuous improvement, change and operational excellence.