Interim Director of Supply Chain (Estates)

Interim Head of Estates Commercial & Procurement
6 – 12 Month Contract
London
 
We are looking for a Director of Supply Chain (Estates) to work for a leading University, based in London.
 
With an annual expenditure exceeding £380m, you will oversee a broad and complex remit of Hard and Soft Facilities Management, Energy, Construction, Refurbishment, and Sustainability. Reporting directly to the Executive Director, you will lead a high-performing team and act as a trusted peer to the Estates Executive, driving the transition toward a Centre of Excellence.
 
The Role:
As the Interim Lead, you will own the business relationship for the Estates category, connecting the needs of campus users with impactful supply chain delivery.
 
Key Responsibilities:

Execute the Three-Year Estates Supply Chain Plan and drive the next tranche of the Universities Commercial Strategy.
Represent the function at the Project Review Committee and present complex strategic papers to university committees.
Lead, coach, and inspire an established Estates Commercial & Procurement team, ensuring the continued growth/development of professional skills and capability.
Bring creative thinking to risk monitoring, contingency planning, and innovative commercial models.
Ensure every pound spent drives social value, inclusive access, and net-zero targets.
Lean into complex supply chain disputes and lead high-stakes negotiations with gravitas.
Commercial Gravitas & Matrix Experience 
What you’ll bring:

Relevant professional qualifications or equivalent experience
Significant experience leading commercial teams across varied sectors, with deep knowledge of Hard/Soft FM markets and contracting models.
A history of re-designing high-value requirements and embedding commercial contract management to drive supplier value.
The ability to operate effectively within a complex matrix environment, building rapid rapport with stakeholders and external advisors.
Skilled at translating complex commercial concepts for non-expert audiences and presenting at the Board level