About Birmingham City University
At Birmingham City University, we are a diverse and inclusive learning community of over 31,400 students from more than 120 countries. We aim to become an exemplar anchor institution, creating and sharing knowledge for a better and more inclusive society. We are committed to providing a transformational educational experience, supporting world-class research, and fostering a collaborative and supportive working environment for our staff.
Recognised as one of the UK’s Top 250 employers (Financial Times & Statista), we pride ourselves on being a place where colleagues feel valued, supported, and able to grow their careers while contributing to the success of our students and communities.
Our student demographic reflects the rich cultural and ethnic diversity of Birmingham itself, with a significant proportion of students from minoritised ethnic backgrounds and the majority of our home students coming from the West Midlands. This diversity is a strength, and it calls for a workforce that is equipped to challenge deficit narratives and thinking — those assumptions that position students from underrepresented groups as lacking rather than recognising their assets, strengths and potential.
By embracing this perspective, we aim to create an environment where all students and colleagues can thrive, and where our work contributes positively to the social, cultural and economic life of Birmingham and beyond.
Please note that applications from candidates who have applied for this role within the last six months will not be considered and therefore need not reapply at this time.
Role Summary
The Building Manager is responsible for the operational management and performance of multiple buildings across the University estate. Acting as the primary point of contact for facilities-related matters within their designated areas, the postholder will lead facilities teams, coordinate service delivery, ensure statutory compliance, and maintain safe, effective, and customer-focused environments.
The role requires strong leadership, stakeholder engagement, operational oversight, and a commitment to continuous improvement, ensuring facilities services support the University's strategic objectives and provide an excellent experience for all building users.
Essential Criteria
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Significant experience in an operational Facilities Management role within a large, complex, or multi-site organisation.
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Demonstrable knowledge and understanding of Health and Safety legislation, compliance requirements, and safe systems of work.
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A recognised Health and Safety or Facilities Management qualification, or equivalent experience gained through relevant roles.
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Proven experience of managing and developing teams, including performance management, coaching, and staff development.
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Strong organisational and planning skills, with the ability to prioritise and manage multiple operational activities simultaneously.
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Experience of contractor management, including monitoring performance, ensuring compliance, and overseeing induction processes.
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Excellent customer service and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to build effective working relationships at all levels.
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Experience of undertaking inspections, audits, and monitoring service standards to drive continuous improvement.
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Ability to analyse operational issues and implement effective solutions in a timely manner.
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Strong verbal and written communication skills, with confidence communicating across a range of audiences.
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Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and experience of using facilities management systems, such as CAFM or equivalent.
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Ability to work flexibly across multiple sites and support out-of-hours operational requirements when required.
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Commitment to maintaining high standards of professionalism, service delivery, and customer experience.
Desirable Criteria
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Full UK driving licence.
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Experience working within a higher education, public sector, or similarly complex environment.
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Relevant professional qualification in Facilities Management or a related discipline.
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Knowledge of Estates and Facilities service delivery functions beyond core facilities operations.
Further Information
For an informal discussion about the role, you may contact Suzanne Blunt, Facilities Operations Manager at [email protected]
Join our Estates and Facilities team and play a key role in creating safe, welcoming, and high-performing environments across our campuses. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced facilities professional to make a real impact, work with a supportive team, and contribute to delivering an outstanding experience for our students, staff, and visitors. We look forward to receiving your application
Why not explore our campuses using our interactive map: Interactive Map | Birmingham City University
Why work for us
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Work–life balance – Generous leave and hybrid working (role dependent).
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Career development – Opportunities to grow, develop and progress your career.
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Reward and wellbeing – Competitive pay, pension, wellbeing support and staff benefits.
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Inclusive culture – A supportive, diverse environment where everyone belongs.
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and to an environment that supports lawful free speech and academic freedom. We will continuously review and improve our policies, practices, and procedures to ensure that we are promoting these in all aspects of our operations. We believe that by working together, combining our many different backgrounds and life experiences, we will empower each other to reach our full potential.
Disability Confident Employer
Birmingham City University is proud to be a Disability Confident Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. Disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview.
