Head of FM and H&S

Deverellsmith have been retained to find a "Head of Facilities and H&S" for an exciting BTR operator growing in the sector. If you have extensive experience in facilities management alongside health and safety across multiple assets this could be the ideal role for you.

Summary:

Job Title: Head of Facilities and Health & Safety
Location: London (Hybrid working with UK site travel as required)
Salary Range: £80-90K + Annual Discretionary Bonus + Benefits

Overview:

We are seeking a proactive and accomplished Head of Facilities and Health & Safety to lead and enhance the delivery of exceptional building management, compliance, and safety standards across our growing Build-to- Rent (BTR) portfolio. This is a critical leadership role designed for someone with strong operational, technical, and people management expertise, combined with a deep understanding of resident experience in the operational living sector.

The successful candidate will have full accountability for FM operations and health & safety strategy across a diverse and expanding portfolio of high-end BTR schemes across the UK, ensuring properties are not only compliant and efficient but deliver a premium living experience for our residents.

Your responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership & Development

• Set the vision and long-term roadmap for facilities management and health & safety across the portfolio, in line with business growth and ESG objectives.
• Develop annual operating plans, CAPEX and OPEX budgets, and asset management strategies for property maintenance and infrastructure renewal.
• Work closely with the senior leadership team to shape company-wide operational standards and support mobilisation of new developments.

Facilities Management (Hard & Soft Services)

• Lead the delivery and continuous improvement of integrated FM services, including mechanical & electrical systems, cleaning, grounds maintenance, pest control, concierge services, and waste/recycling.
• Oversee implementation and optimisation of CAFM systems to improve asset tracking, contractor management, compliance, and reactive/preventative maintenance.
• Ensure robust contract management and procurement frameworks are in place for all FM service providers, with an emphasis on value, performance, and sustainability.

Health, Safety & Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure full legal and regulatory compliance across all assets, including: Fire Safety (FRA, compartmentation, alarms & suppression), Water Hygiene (Legionella), Asbestos Management, Lift & Plant Inspections (LOLER, PUWER), General H&S (Risk Assessments, COSHH, DSEAR)
• Maintain all statutory documentation and ensure H&S audits, inspections, and incident reporting processes are embedded across the business.
• Be the company's competent person for H&S matters, leading training and awareness campaigns to ensure a positive safety culture.

Team & Leadership Management

• Directly manage a team of operatives and liaise with multiple site managers, providing leadership, mentoring, and professional development support.
• Design and implement training and competency frameworks across the portfolio to ensure technical capability, compliance awareness, and customer service excellence.
• Promote a values-led, inclusive, and performance-driven culture within both internal teams and supply chain partners.

Stakeholder Collaboration & Communication

• Serve as the primary point of contact for all operational risk, building performance, and safety matters across the portfolio, liaising regularly with internal stakeholders, residents, investors, and third-party partners.
• Collaborate with Development and Mobilisation teams during project handovers to ensure buildings are designed and delivered for operational excellence from day one.
• Produce and present clear reporting packs, dashboards, and performance metrics for board and investor meetings.

About you

• 8-10 years' experience in senior FM or H&S leadership roles, ideally within residential, hospitality, or BTR sectors.
• Extensive understanding of UK building compliance, risk management, and property operations.
• Proven experience leading multi-site portfolios and managing both direct teams and contracted service providers.
• Strong financial acumen, with experience managing large operational budgets and capital expenditure planning.
• Familiar with modern FM technologies, CAFM systems, and ESG reporting tools.
• Relevant qualifications: NEBOSH Diploma or equivalent, IOSH Membership, IWFM or BIFM accreditation, and/or RICS desirable.