About the Client

Branta Recruitment is supporting a prominent Further Education college group in London in the appointment of a Hard Services (M&E) Manager covering a wide range of mechanical and electrical systems, requiring a technically capable professional who can ensure statutory compliance, operational continuity, and high‑quality service delivery.

The Role

The Hard Services (M&E) Manager will oversee the day‑to‑day mechanical and electrical maintenance operations across the college estate. This includes managing planned preventative maintenance, statutory compliance, remedial works, and minor capital projects. The postholder will act as a technical lead, support the Head of Estates, and ensure the estate remains safe, efficient, and fit for purpose.

Key Responsibilities

Mechanical & Electrical Maintenance

Oversees daily M&E operations, ensuring the estate remains compliant and operational.

Manages PPM schedules, remedial works, and statutory maintenance.

Supports the maintenance of the asset register and ensures accurate documentation.

Provides hands‑on technical support where appropriate and within qualification scope. Water Hygiene & Building Management Systems

Supports the Water Safety Group and contributes to the delivery of the water management scheme.

Acts as the primary point of contact for the operation and management of BMS systems across the estate. Project Management

Acts as M&E project manager for minor capital works and building fabric projects.

Defines project briefs, coordinates design and delivery, and manages contractors.

Ensures projects meet business needs, budgets, and timeframes.

Processes payments, validates invoices, and enforces contract terms. Contractor & Compliance Management

Appoints and manages contractors, issuing site inductions, permits to work, and verifying RAMS.

Ensures compliance with UK legislation, regulations, ACOPs, and internal policies.

Supports emergency evacuation procedures as part of the Estates Emergency Evacuation Team. Financial & Operational Reporting

Manages delegated budgets in line with Estates procedures.

Provides regular reporting on equipment condition, infrastructure risks, and business continuity.

Identifies backlog maintenance and contributes to the annual estates business plan. Stakeholder Engagement & Customer Service

Maintains strong working relationships with internal teams, academic staff, and external partners.

Promotes a customer‑first ethos across all operational activities.

Supports the implementation of operational plans and accommodation strategies. Energy & Sustainability

Works with colleagues to identify best practice and cost‑saving opportunities.

Provides guidance on energy management and supports BMS‑based monitoring and reporting. Person Specification

Qualifications

Minimum of 3 years’ experience in a significant building services or building fabric maintenance role, or a recognised qualification.

Diploma or equivalent in Building or Building Services (essential).

Degree in Building or Building Services (desirable).

NEBOSH Certificate (desirable).

Evidence of ongoing professional development. Experience

Experience managing budgets, preparing cost estimates, and reviewing expenditure.

Experience with cooling towers, boilers, chillers, and plant rooms.

Experience supervising internal staff and external contractors.

Experience using computerised systems, including CAFM platforms. Skills & Knowledge

Strong understanding of HVAC, plumbing, and mechanical plant systems.

Knowledge of relevant legislation, regulations, and ACOPs.

Ability to interpret complex reports and produce clear documentation.

Familiarity with BMS operation and energy management principles.

Strong communication skills and the ability to work with diverse stakeholders.

Ability to manage competing deadlines and prioritise effectively. Attributes

Committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults.

Able to work under pressure and meet deadlines.

Confident in managing complex processes and resolving conflict.

Flexible and adaptable to operational demands.

Able to obtain an Enhanced DBS clearance.

Holds a valid UK driving licence