Manager/ Senior Manager for Project and Facility Management

Job summary:

The Manager/ Senior Manager for Project & Facility Management to lead and support strategic initiatives for facility development, renovation, and maintenance across all centres. The incumbent will act as second-in-command, ensuring operational continuity and excellence in project execution and facility operations. The ideal candidate will bring a blend of strategic vision, operational excellence, and team leadership to ensure that all our centres are safe, well-maintained, compliant, and conducive to a high-quality early childhood education environment.

Job responsibilities:

Facility & Project Management

• Lead, plan, and manage end-to-end facility development and renovation projects for new and existing centres.

• Coordinate with architects, contractors, and regulatory authorities to ensure timely and budget-compliant completion of projects.

• Ensure all renovation work aligns with safety regulations, licensing requirements, and organizational standards.

• Review and approve design plans, layouts, and improvements.

• Identify opportunities for strategic expansion of the centre network.

• Assess market requirements and identify possible sites for new centres.

• Perform site search and negotiate tenancy agreements to finalize rental contracts.

• Liaise with government agencies on site hand-over matters, development grants, financial feasibility, furniture and equipment grants.

• Ensure compliance with safety, regulatory, and sustainability standards.

• Work with relevant authorities to secure licensing from government bodies.

Facilities Maintenance & Operations

• Manage day-to-day facility operations, including preventive maintenance and vendor management.

• Drive initiatives for energy efficiency and cost optimization.

• Oversee preventive and corrective maintenance programs for all centres.

• Ensure timely and cost-effective resolution of maintenance issues (HVAC, plumbing, electrical, structural).

• Monitor vendor contracts and evaluate performance of maintenance service providers.

• Develop and implement policies for efficient facility maintenance operations.

Budgeting & Strategic Planning

• Develop and manage annual budgets for facility maintenance operations and capital expenditures.

• Identify opportunities for cost savings and operational improvements.

• Provide regular reporting on project status, facility KPIs, and staffing efficiency.

• Assist in developing and implementing long-term strategies for project execution and facility management.

• Represent the department in executive meetings and strategic planning sessions.

Leadership & Succession

• Act as second-in-command, providing leadership continuity in the absence of the Head.

• Mentor and develop team members, fostering a high-performance culture.

• Prepare succession plans and talent pipelines for critical roles.

• Collaborate with internal departments and external partners to ensure seamless project delivery.

• Any other ad hoc duties as assigned.

Job requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Facilities Management, Architecture, or a related field.

• Minimum 8-10 years of experience in project and facility management, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.

• Proven track record in managing large-scale projects and complex facilities.

• Strong knowledge of compliance, safety standards, and sustainability practices.

• Proven ability to lead diverse teams, including non-executive support staff.

• Strong knowledge of building codes, safety regulations, and food safety standards.

• Excellent communication, organizational, and negotiation skills.

• Experience working in early childhood or education sector is a strong advantage.