Head Of Projects

Description:

University of the Arts London (UAL), a globally renowned institution ranked 2nd in the world for Art and Design in the 2025 QS World University Rankings for the seventh consecutive year, is seeking an accomplished Head of Projects to lead the delivery of its ambitious Estates Capital Plan.

UAL is a prestigious creative powerhouse comprising six renowned colleges and four institutes across London, serving over 20,000 students from more than 130 countries. The University is at the forefront of creativity, innovation, and design, offering a multicultural, inclusive, and dynamic environment that nurtures the next generation of creative talent.

The role comes at a pivotal moment as UAL implements its 10-year Estates Strategy, which includes:

• Completion of the new London College of Fashion campus (2024).

• Construction of the new London College of Communication campus (completion in 2027).

• Transformational upgrades to existing facilities to ensure they are fit for purpose, sustainable, and provide world-class experiences.

• Over £100 million capital investment by 2030, delivering major estate transformation projects, academic growth schemes, and targeted Scope 1 and 2 decarbonisation programmes.

• An annual £9 million Long-Term Maintenance programme to preserve and enhance estate quality, compliance, and resilience.

Reporting directly to the Associate Director of Estate Development (and deputising as required), the Head of Projects will lead a multidisciplinary team delivering capital works, estate infrastructure improvements, decarbonisation initiatives, and maintenance programmes. The role will work closely with the Space Management team to ensure integrated project and space planning across the estate.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead a diverse portfolio of capital projects, ensuring timely, budget-compliant, and high-quality delivery.

• Manage estate transformation projects in alignment with the University’s Size and Shape strategy, Net Zero commitments, and operational sustainability goals.

• Oversee teams handling capital works, infrastructure upgrades, decarbonisation, and long-term maintenance.

• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure smooth execution and integration of initiatives.

• Allocate and manage resources across a dynamic portfolio of work.

• Promote a culture of excellence, inclusivity, and innovation within the Estates Development team.

Candidate Requirements:

• Proven experience managing significant capital projects across a diverse estate or building portfolio.

• Exceptional leadership and interpersonal skills, capable of engaging and inspiring teams and stakeholders.

• Ability to plan and allocate resources effectively within complex project environments.

• A proactive, positive, and energetic approach, with a strong enthusiasm for the impact of UAL’s work and its estate.

This is a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping the physical environment of one of the world’s most respected arts universities, ensuring it continues to provide cutting-edge, sustainable, and inspiring spaces for its community.