Head of Hard Services

I’m currently working with a well‑established London‑based managing agent with an exceptional reputation and a loyal portfolio of commercial, residential and heritage properties. They’re now looking to bring in a Head of Hard Services to join their leadership team and take full ownership of the technical FM function.

This is a senior, hands‑on technical role where you’ll be the go‑to expert for all things engineering, compliance and asset performance across a diverse client base. You’ll be leading and developing a team of engineers, supervisors and technical specialists, shaping the hard services strategy and ensuring consistently high standards across the portfolio.

What the role looks like:

• Lead and develop engineering teams — mentoring engineers, supervisors and mobile specialists while building a strong, collaborative culture.
• Own the hard services strategy across commercial, residential and heritage assets.
• Drive statutory compliance for HVAC, electrical, water hygiene, fire systems, lifts and building fabric.
• Oversee asset management including lifecycle planning, condition surveys, PPM and capital works.
• Act as senior technical advisor to key clients, providing expert guidance and proactive solutions.
• Manage contractors and procurement to ensure quality, value and strong performance.
• Champion operational excellence across engineering processes, reporting and H&S culture.
• Oversee budgets and capex including tendering and cost‑efficiency initiatives.
• Provide senior technical support on escalations and complex engineering issues.

What they’re looking for:

• Leadership experience managing engineers and technical teams in a managing agent, consultancy or multi‑site environment.
• Strong background in hard FM, ideally across commercial buildings; residential/heritage exposure is a bonus.
• Deep understanding of statutory compliance and building services.
• Experience with PPM, lifecycle planning and capital works.
• Confident, credible client‑facing skills.
• Strong financial acumen (budgets, capex, contracts).
• Relevant technical qualifications (M&E, building services, etc.).
• IOSH/NEBOSH desirable; professional memberships advantageous.