Head of Estates, Strategy, Compliance & Planning

Salary: -75,777 + Car Allowance
Location: Maidstone, Kent (Hybrid Working)
Hours: 37 hours per week, Monday to Friday
Reports to: Chief Financial Officer
Line Management: 4 direct reports - Asset & Planning Manager, Building Safety Manager, Compliance Manager, Energy Manager

Main Purpose of the Role:

To lead the strategic planning and long-term development of the estate portfolio for Kent Police, ensuring optimal property utilisation, statutory compliance, and environmental sustainability. The postholder will be responsible for developing and delivering a 10-20-year estate strategy aligned with operational policing needs and the vision of the Chief Constable and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC).

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Estate Planning:
  Develop and implement a long-term estate strategy and property plan, ensuring alignment with operational requirements and future policing needs.
• Environmental Leadership:
  Lead the Force''s green agenda in estates, embedding sustainability, energy efficiency, and carbon reduction into all estate-related activities.
• Team Leadership:
  Provide visible leadership to the Estates Strategy, Compliance & Planning team, setting clear objectives, monitoring performance, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
• Compliance & Risk Management:
  Oversee statutory compliance across the estate, including fire safety, water and electrical testing, and ensure robust governance and risk management frameworks are in place.
• Asset Management:
  Maintain an accurate estate asset register and lead on property acquisitions, disposals, and utilisation to maximise value and efficiency.
• Policy & Process Development:
  Create and review estate-related policies and procedures to ensure legal compliance and operational effectiveness.
• Financial Oversight:
  Manage capital and revenue budgets for estate services, ensuring financial accountability and alignment with strategic priorities.
• Stakeholder Engagement:
  Act as the subject matter expert, advising senior leaders and engaging with internal and external stakeholders to deliver innovative estate solutions.

Person Specification:

Essential Qualifications & Experience:

• Chartered Surveyor with RICS accreditation
• Extensive leadership experience in estates or construction at a strategic level
• Proven track record in estate strategy, compliance, and asset management
• Strong financial acumen, including experience in complex financial modelling
• Excellent negotiation and communication skills
• Experience drafting strategic and compliance documentation

Desirable Attributes:

• Proactive, self-motivated, and flexible
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to influence at all levels
• Skilled in coordinating and prioritising across a diverse estate portfolio
• Committed to sustainability and continuous improvement

Benefits includes 30 days annual leave increasing upon service + 1 day for Xmas, -400 a month car allowance or lease scheme.

Annual salary increase