Facilities Manager

Job Title: Facility Manager
Function: Operations
Brand: Queen Elizabeth's School, Dubai Sports City
Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Reporting to: Head of Operations

The Opportunity
We are seeking a highly competent and detail-oriented Facility Manager to ensure the safe, efficient, and immaculate operation of the school's buildings, grounds, and physical infrastructure. This is a key operational role responsible for the day-to-day management, maintenance, and safety compliance of all facilities, ensuring that the school environment consistently reflects the highest international standards. You will play a vital part in delivering a clean, secure, and well-functioning campus that supports exceptional teaching, learning, and community life.

The Role

1) Facilities and Maintenance Management

• Oversee the maintenance and repair of the school's buildings, equipment, and grounds, ensuring facilities are in excellent working condition at all times.
• Develop and implement a comprehensive preventative maintenance program for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, as well as school assets.
• Supervise and coordinate the work of in-house maintenance staff and external contractors, ensuring all tasks are completed efficiently and to a high standard.
• Regularly inspect the school premises to identify issues and ensure that health and safety standards are met.
• Maintain an inventory of maintenance supplies and equipment, ensuring timely procurement and cost-effective management of resources.

2) Health, Safety, and Security

• Ensure the school complies with all local health, safety, and environmental regulations, including fire safety and emergency response protocols.
• Conduct regular risk assessments and safety audits of the premises, addressing any identified issues promptly.
• Oversee the implementation and maintenance of security systems, including CCTV, access controls, and visitor management systems.
• Lead on emergency preparedness, including fire drills, evacuation plans, and first-response readiness.

3) Vendor and Contractor Management

• Manage relationships with external vendors, contractors, and service providers for cleaning, maintenance, landscaping, and other outsourced services.
• Ensure all contractors adhere to school policies, including safeguarding and safety requirements.
• Negotiate contracts and service agreements to ensure high-quality services are delivered within budget.

4) Budgeting and Financial Oversight

• Prepare and manage the facilities department's annual budget, ensuring cost-effectiveness and value for money.
• Monitor expenses related to maintenance, utilities, and services, and provide regular financial reports to the Head of Operations.

5) Operational Support

• Support the planning and execution of school events, ensuring facilities and equipment are available and set up appropriately.
• Oversee transportation services, including managing the school bus fleet and coordinating with transportation providers.
• Monitor utilities (electricity, water, and gas usage) to ensure efficient consumption and cost control.

The Person

Must Have

• Qualifications: Diploma in Facility Management, Engineering, or a related field (Bachelor's Degree highly desirable).
• Certifications: Professional certifications such as NEBOSH, IOSH, or IWFM.
• Experience: Minimum of 5 years of experience in facilities management, preferably in a school or educational environment.
• Track record: Proven experience managing budgets, contractors, and maintenance teams.
• Leadership: Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and oversee a diverse team.
• Technical knowledge: In-depth knowledge of facility systems, including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and security systems.
• Compliance: Familiarity with local health and safety regulations and compliance standards, including local Municipality requirements.

Beneficial

• Knowledge of sustainable and energy-efficient practices.

Safeguarding Statement
Queen Elizabeth's Global Schools are an equal opportunities employer and is deeply committed to safeguarding our students, ensuring their safety and wellbeing. We expect all staff and members of our community to share this commitment and to promptly report any concerns about a student's or community member's safety or wellbeing. Applicants must be willing to undergo rigorous child protection screening, including checks with past employers and providing Police Clearance Certificates from all countries that the applicant has resided in.