Head of Facilities Management

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Job Purpose

The Head of Facilities Management is a senior leadership position responsible for the strategic direction, operational excellence, and technical oversight of all facilities within Fortes's portfolio. The role ensures the delivery of a safe, efficient, sustainable, and inspiring built environment that supports the organization's educational mission and growth strategy. This leader will drive innovation in facility operations, sustainability, and digital building management systems.

Direct Reports

Assistant Facilities Manager, Supervisors, Engineers, Technicians, and Service Providers

Strategic Objectives & Organizational Impact

• Align facilities management strategy with Fortes's broader organizational goals, supporting excellence in education delivery through world-class infrastructure.
• Ensure reliable and efficient operation of all facilities, minimizing downtime and maximizing learning continuity.
• Lead the transition toward greener, energy-efficient, and sustainable facilities across all sites.
• Implement advanced Building Management Systems (BMS) and smart technologies to enhance monitoring, efficiency, and predictive maintenance.
• Embed a culture of safety, compliance, and well-being across all facilities.
• Optimize operational costs through data-driven decision-making, vendor performance management, and strategic asset lifecycle planning.
• Build a high-performing facilities team through strong leadership, mentoring, and professional development programs.

Key Responsibilities 1. Strategic Leadership

• Develop and implement a comprehensive facilities management strategy covering maintenance, sustainability, risk management, and asset optimization.
• Advise the executive team on long-term infrastructure planning, energy efficiency, and capital investments.
• Lead multi-site facilities operations with a focus on standardization, efficiency, and service quality.
• Drive sustainability initiatives include LEED/BREEAM compliance, waste reduction, and renewable energy integration.

2. Operational Management

• Oversee maintenance, operations, and repairs across all MEP, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, civil, and safety systems.
• Ensure full operational functionality of Building Management Systems (BMS) for monitoring and optimization of energy and equipment performance.
• Conduct regular site audits, inspections, and HSE assessments to ensure compliance and performance excellence.
• Manage staff accommodation, ensuring all units meet operational, safety, and comfort standards.
• Implement centralized CAFM systems for asset management, work order tracking, and reporting.

3. Health, Safety, and Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with UAE Civil Defence, Dubai Municipality, KHDA, and other regulatory bodies.
• Lead emergency preparedness, crisis response, and HSE awareness initiatives.
• Conduct safety drills, audits, and risk assessments to maintain the highest safety standards.
• Lead the procurement, evaluation, and management of Annual Maintenance Contracts (AMCs).
• Negotiate and optimize vendor contracts for quality, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
• Monitor and evaluate contractor and service provider performance against SLAs and KPIs.

5. Projects & Construction Oversight

• Provide technical input during planning, design, and execution of construction, refurbishment, and expansion projects.
• Review MEP drawings, cost estimates, and BOQs for technical and financial soundness.
• Manage project commissioning, snag rectification, and handover processes.

Job Specifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical engineering (mandatory); Master's degree or professional certification (IFMA, CFM, RICS, PMP) preferred.
• 12-15 years of facilities management experience, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role managing large-scale, multi-site operations (preferably in education, healthcare, or hospitality sectors).
• Proven expertise in MEP, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and civil systems.
• In-depth knowledge of Building Management Systems (BMS), automation, and smart building technologies.
• Strong background in sustainability and energy efficiency practices.
• Valid UAE Driving License.
• Proficient in CAFM systems, BMS software, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Excellent written and spoken communication skills.
• Strategic and operational leadership
• Strong technical and analytical acumen
• Expertise in BMS and smart facilities management
• Budgeting, cost control, and financial planning
• Excellent communication, reporting, and presentation skills
• Vendor, stakeholder, and project management
• Commitment to sustainability and health & safety excellence
• Crisis management and resilience planning
• Ability to lead diverse teams across multiple sites

Interested candidates are invited to apply through our official careers portal: