Head of Maintenance Operations (M&E)

Deputy Head of Maintenance Location: South Kensington, London Salary: £67,000 – £75,000 per annum + excellent public sector benefits We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Deputy Head of Maintenance to join a large-scale public sector organisation based in South Kensington. This is an outstanding opportunity for a technically strong facilities and engineering professional with significant Mechanical & Electrical (M&E) expertise to play a key leadership role within a complex and high-profile operational environment. Working within a diverse estate portfolio, you will support the strategic and operational delivery of hard services maintenance, ensuring compliance, reliability, safety, and continuous improvement across critical building infrastructure. Key Responsibilities * Support the Head of Maintenance in leading day-to-day engineering and maintenance operations across a large, complex estate. * Oversee planned preventative maintenance (PPM) programmes and reactive maintenance activities. * Provide technical leadership across all M&E systems including HVAC, BMS, electrical distribution, plant rooms, generators, UPS systems, and water systems. * Manage specialist contractors and service providers to ensure high standards of delivery, compliance, and value for money. * Ensure statutory compliance with all relevant health & safety and building regulations. * Lead on fault finding, root cause analysis, and continuous improvement initiatives. * Assist with capital projects, refurbishments, and lifecycle planning. * Support budget management, procurement processes, and performance reporting. * Deputise for the Head of Maintenance when required. About You * Proven experience in a senior maintenance or engineering leadership role within a large-scale environment such as public sector, healthcare, education, transport, museums, or commercial estates. * Strong background in Mechanical & Electrical (M&E) building services maintenance. * Excellent knowledge of compliance and statutory regulations relating to building maintenance. * Experience managing contractors, service delivery, and technical teams. * Strong understanding of asset management and planned maintenance systems. * Relevant engineering qualification in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering (HNC/HND/Degree or equivalent). * IOSH or NEBOSH qualification desirable. * Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills. Benefits * Competitive salary of £67,000 – £75,000 per annum * Generous public sector pension scheme * 40+ days annual leave including bank holidays * Excellent work-life balance * Training and professional development opportunities * Employee wellbeing programmes * Season ticket loan and cycle-to-work scheme * Access to high-profile and technically diverse facilities This is an exciting opportunity to join a respected public sector organisation operating within a prestigious South Kensington setting, where you can make a significant impact on the performance and future development of a major estate portfolio. To apply, please submit your CV and supporting statement outlining your relevant M&E and maintenance leadership experience