Deputy Director of Infrastructure (Projects) - Full-time

Woodlands; Rochester; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

A progressive multi-academy trust seeks a Deputy Director of Infrastructure (Projects) to lead strategic developments and manage a diverse project portfolio across numerous academies. You will oversee significant capital projects, including a new SEN academy and expansions at existing schools, while also managing annual condition allocations to improve facilities. Ideal candidates will have a background in construction management, excellent leadership skills, and experience in budgets and strategic asset management.

Qualifications

• Proven track record in managing large-scale construction projects.
• Experience in strategic asset management and lifecycle planning.
• Ability to lead diverse teams in a high-pressure environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead high-performing project teams for major construction projects.
• Oversee the execution of the School Condition Allocation.
• Ensure compliance with safety and building regulations.

Skills

Construction management

Project leadership

Budget management

Strategic planning

Asset management

Education

Degree in Engineering or related field

Project Management Professional certification

Job description

Leigh Academies Trust (LAT) is one of the UK's most progressive multi-academy trusts. We believe that world-class education is only possible when supported by world-class infrastructure. Our pace of delivery is industry-leading: during the 2025 summer break alone, our team successfully completed dozens of projects with a total capital investment of over £10 million.

As Deputy Director of Infrastructure (Projects), you will be the strategic driver behind our most ambitious developments. You will lead a high-performing project team to deliver physical and digital spaces that directly enhance the learning journey for thousands of primary and secondary pupils.

This role offers a sophisticated balance between high-profile new builds and the critical asset management of our existing estate. You will manage a diverse portfolio that ensures every academy - regardless of age or location - meets the highest standards.

1. High-Value Capital Developments:

• Leigh Academy Birchwood: Serve as the client representative for a £20m DfE-led brand-new 'all-through' SEN academy.
• Sir Geoffrey Leigh Academy: Lead a £7m KCC-sponsored new build expansion to support secondary growth.
• Expansion & Specialist Provision: Manage multi-million-pound projects including a £2.6m extension at Leigh Academy Rainham and a £500k nursery extension at Leigh Academy Cherry Orchard.

2. Strategic Asset Management (SCA):

You will hold responsibility for the execution of our £5 million annual School Condition Allocation (SCA). This is not mere maintenance; it is strategic lifecycle management involving:

• Large-scale roof replacements and structural fabric renewals.
• Major heating and mechanical overhauls aimed at improving energy efficiency.
• Comprehensive welfare and classroom upgrades to modernize the primary and secondary estate.

This is a rare opportunity to join a Trust that treats infrastructure as a cornerstone of educational success. You will work within a high-energy leadership team where your expertise in construction and project management will have a tangible, daily impact on the lives of students.