Space Planning Manager
About the Role
This is a dynamic, end-to-end role where you’ll take ownership of space planning projects from initial concept through to completion. From designing layouts and overseeing refurbishments, to managing furniture procurement and coordinating large-scale staff relocations, you’ll play a central role in ensuring our spaces are functional, efficient, and future-ready.
You’ll work on projects of all sizes, from individual workspace moves to complex departmental relocations involving hundreds of staff while balancing quality, cost, sustainability and user experience. Alongside project delivery, you’ll contribute to utilisation studies and strategic planning, helping to shape how space is used across a varied and evolving estate.
What You’ll Do
- Lead and deliver space planning and interior design projects across a diverse property portfolio.
- Collaborate with senior stakeholders (including Deans, Directors and Heads of Unit) to understand and translate requirements into effective solutions.
- Produce detailed layouts using AutoCAD and similar tools, ensuring design quality and compliance.
- Manage external suppliers and contractors, ensuring works are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest standards.
- Oversee procurement of furniture, flooring, and related services, contributing to budget planning and contract management.
- Deliver space utilisation studies, analysing data, presenting insights, and recommending improvements.
- Ensure compliance with health & safety, fire regulations, and equality legislation across all projects.
Who We’re Looking For
You’ll bring strong experience in space planning, interior design, and project management, coupled with a proactive and collaborative approach. Comfortable working across multiple priorities, you’ll have the confidence to influence stakeholders and the technical expertise to bring designs to life.
Key strengths include:
- Advanced AutoCAD skills (with knowledge of SketchUp or similar).
- Strong stakeholder engagement, negotiation and communication skills.
- Experience managing budgets, suppliers and complex projects.
- A solid understanding of design trends, compliance standards, and workplace optimisation
Why Join Us?
At The Open University, we are leaders in accessible education and innovation. This is a unique opportunity to shape the physical environment of a large, purpose-driven organisation. You’ll work on meaningful projects that directly impact staff experience, sustainability, and operational efficiency while collaborating with a supportive, multidisciplinary team.
Our benefits include:
- 33 days annual leave, on top of bank holidays and a three-day Christmas closure period.
- Access to a leading pension scheme for UK higher education with generous employer contributions.
- Staff Fee Waivers for OU study, meaning you could earn a degree for free.
- Discounts, wellbeing support, and development opportunities.
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