Facilities Manager - Boarding School in Dorset!

A prestigious boarding school in Dorset is seeking an experienced and highly organised Facilities Manager to take strategic and operational responsibility for the school’s estate. This is a senior, full-time role within a well-established boarding environment, offering the opportunity to oversee a complex site that operates year-round and plays a central role in school life. The Role You will lead the effective management, safety, and development of the school’s buildings, grounds, and facilities, ensuring they are safe, compliant, and maintained to a high standard at all times. Working closely with the Head and senior leadership team, you will provide both day-to-day operational oversight and longer-term estates planning. Key responsibilities include: Overseeing the daily operation of the school’s buildings and extensive grounds Ensuring full compliance with health and safety legislation, fire safety, and statutory checks Managing planned and reactive maintenance schedules across academic, boarding, and residential areas Leading and line-managing site staff, caretakers, and cleaning teams Coordinating and supervising external contractors and specialist services Managing facilities budgets, procurement, and supplier relationships Supporting capital projects, refurbishment works, and long-term estates development Ensuring boarding houses are safe, comfortable, and fully operational year-round Responding effectively to out-of-hours or emergency issues where required The School Environment This Dorset boarding school is known for its high standards, strong pastoral care, and well-maintained campus. The school operates throughout term time and beyond, meaning facilities management is central to student wellbeing, safeguarding, and the smooth running of daily life. Leadership is professional and supportive, with a strong emphasis on compliance, planning, and continuous improvement. What the School Is Looking For Proven experience in facilities, estates, or site management Strong working knowledge of health and safety, fire safety, and compliance requirements Experience managing staff, contractors, and budgets Excellent organisational, leadership, and problem-solving skills Ability to work independently and manage a varied, high-responsibility workload Experience in a school, boarding, or residential setting desirable Why Join Senior operational role within a respected boarding school Opportunity to lead and shape a large, well-established estate Supportive leadership and clear strategic direction Varied role combining hands-on management with long-term planning Stable position within a professional and well-run organisation How to Apply If you are interested in this Facilities Manager role at a boarding school in Dorset, please submit your CV. Early applications are encouraged due to the senior nature of the position.