Director of Estates and Facilities

The Institute of Cancer Research; Sutton; Hybrid; GBP 130,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading cancer research institute in Sutton is seeking an exceptional Director of Estates and Facilities. This pivotal role involves shaping and delivering a world-class environment for staff and students. Responsibilities include developing high-performing teams, implementing strategies that align with organizational goals, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Strong leadership skills and experience in senior management within relevant sectors are essential. Join a committed team driving impactful research and diversity in the workplace.

Qualifications

• Proven senior leader capable of building effective teams.
• Experience at senior manager or director level in relevant functional areas.
• Strong influencing skills and ability to communicate with impact.

Responsibilities

• Inspire and develop high-performing teams across various services.
• Lead the creation and implementation of strategies and budgets.
• Embed a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.

Skills

Team Leadership

Strategic Planning

Strong Communication

Problem Solving

Job description

Location: Sutton/ Chelsea. This role is eligible for hybrid working.

Salary: £130,000 per annum

Closing Date: 8th January 2026

The Role

We are looking for an exceptional leader to join the Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) as Director of Estates and Facilities. This is a pivotal role, responsible for shaping and delivering a world‑class environment that empowers our staff and students to achieve their organisational and personal goals. Through visionary leadership and a commitment to continuous improvement, you will ensure our services are not only effective but truly outstanding.

Key Responsibilities

• Inspire and develop high‑performing teams across Estates Services, Facilities Services and HSEQ, ensuring the directorate’s objectives to support the ICR’s mission are achieved – enabling world‑class science through high‑performing infrastructure and services.
• Lead the creation and implementation of strategies, operating plans, and budgets across all functional areas, aligning with the ICR’s strategic priorities.
• Embed a culture of excellence and continuous improvement across all areas of service provision.

About You

A proven senior leader, capable of building effective teams and delivering integrated solutions to complex challenges. With strong influencing skills and the ability to communicate with impact, you will inspire confidence through your personal credibility. Experience operating at senior manager or director level in at least one of the functional areas covered by this role is essential.

About the Directorate

The Directorate brings together a wide range of professional services functions, including Building & Maintenance, Planning & Development, Site Management and Facilities, and Health, Safety, Environment and Quality (HSEQ).

Further Information

We encourage all applicants to access the job pack attached for more detailed information about this role.

About The Institute of Cancer Research

Why work for us?

As a member of staff, you'll have exclusive access to a range of staff benefits.

The ICR is committed to supporting overseas applicants applying for roles, please click here to find out further information.

The Institute of Cancer Research, London, is one of the world's most influential cancer research institutes, with an outstanding record of achievement dating back more than 100 years. Further information about working at the ICR can be found here .

At the Institute of Cancer Research, we champion diversity as we believe it fuels innovation and drives impactful research. We welcome applicants from all walks of life, valuing diverse perspectives that enrich our work.

Don't let a checklist of qualifications hold you back – if you're passionate about the role, we want to hear from you. Your unique experiences and backgrounds contribute to the richness of our team. We are committed to being an equal opportunity for all, regardless of ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, or any other dimension of diversity. Join us in creating an inclusive environment where everyone's voice is heard and valued.