Director of Estates, Capital Projects and Commercial Development

Francis Holland Schools Trust is seeking an exceptional property and estates leader to help shape the next chapter in the development of our unique and prestigious estate portfolio. This is a rare opportunity to combine strategic estate leadership, capital development and commercial innovation in an organisation dedicated to transforming the lives of young people through education.

With a proud history dating back to 1881, the Francis Holland Schools Trust comprises three highly regarded independent schools for girls across central London. Our schools are united by a shared commitment to academic excellence, outstanding pastoral care and preparing young people to lead lives of purpose.

As we continue to invest in our future, we are looking for a visionary Director of Estates to lead the stewardship and development of a diverse and distinctive property portfolio spanning historic, listed and modern educational buildings in some of London's most sought-after locations.

The Opportunity

Reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer, you will be the Trust's lead property professional, responsible for developing and delivering a long-term estates strategy that supports our educational ambitions, operational resilience and financial sustainability.

This is far more than a traditional estates role.

You will lead major capital projects, drive estate master planning, identify commercial opportunities, champion sustainability initiatives and provide strategic advice to senior leaders and governors. Working across our three schools, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring that our exceptional learning environments continue to inspire generations of pupils.

What You'll Be Doing

Developing and implementing a long-term estates vision aligned to the Trust's strategic priorities.

Leading significant capital investment and development projects from concept through to completion.

Maximising the value, effectiveness and sustainability of our estate assets.

Creating innovative approaches to commercial lettings and income generation.

Advising the COO, Heads and Governors on estate investment, risk, compliance and future opportunities.

Building strong partnerships with consultants, contractors, local authorities, donors and wider stakeholders.

Shaping an estate that supports outstanding educational outcomes for decades to come.

Who We're Looking For

You will be an accomplished estates, property or asset management professional with a proven record of leading complex projects and delivering strategic change.

You are equally comfortable developing long-term investment plans, presenting to governors, negotiating with external partners and bringing ambitious projects to life. Commercially astute and strategically minded, you will combine professional credibility with the ability to build relationships, influence stakeholders and inspire confidence.

Most importantly, you will share our commitment to excellence, integrity and creating exceptional environments in which young people can flourish.

Why Join Francis Holland Schools Trust?

This is an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy across a unique educational estate in the heart of London.

You'll join a collaborative and ambitious leadership team at a time of significant opportunity, with the freedom to shape strategy, influence investment decisions and deliver meaningful impact.

In return, we offer:

• Excellent salary commensurate with the seniority of the role
• Flexible full-time or part-time arrangements (minimum three days per week)
• 30 days annual leave plus bank holidays and a notional week at Christmas
• Generous pension scheme with employer contributions of up to 13.5%
• Enhanced family leave and sick pay provisions
• 50% fee remission for daughters
• Free lunch during term time
• Wellbeing support, including 24/7 GP access

Outstanding professional development opportunities and a comprehensive benefits package.

If you have the vision, commercial acumen and property expertise to shape the future of one of London’s most distinctive educational estates, we would be delighted to hear from you. To find out more and apply, please visit the Francis Holland Schools Trust careers page.

Closing date: 10:00am on Thursday, 10th September 2026.

Francis Holland Schools Trust (FHST) are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Francis Holland Schools Trust (FHST) ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment.