Employment opportunity at Baobab College
Baobab College is a dynamic and innovative learning environment with children at the heart of everything we do. As we continue to develop, we are pleased to have the following opportunities for enthusiastic, committed professionals to join our team at Baobab College. We currently have a vacancy in the following area:
Position 1: Estate and Projects Manager – 1st August 2025
Position Overview
The Estate and Projects Manager will be responsible for the strategic planning, management, and execution of projects related to the growth and maintenance of the college’s facilities. This includes overseeing ongoing construction works for school expansion, ensuring power supply to all parts of the school at all times, ensuring the smooth operation of water systems, and maintaining the day-to-day functionality of the college’s infrastructure, transportation, and outsourced services. The Estate and Projects Manager should be hands on and have a working understanding of electricity, structural engineering and plumbing. The ideal candidate will have substantial experience in managing similar educational institutions or large-scale facilities, with strong expertise in project management and operational maintenance.
Key Responsibilities
- Project Management & Development
- Lead and manage all infrastructure and expansion projects, including construction, renovation, and upgrades to school buildings, dormitories, classrooms, and recreational facilities.
- Oversee the development and implementation of greenfield projects to enhance the college’s sustainability initiative.
- Coordinate the design, development, and implementation of campus-wide systems , ensuring compliance with local regulations and sustainability goals.
- Monitor the progress, timelines, and budgets of ongoing and upcoming construction projects, ensuring high-quality standards and project completion within set deadline.
- Estates Management
- Ensure the proper maintenance and operation of all college facilities, including buildings, playgrounds, gardens, and outdoor spa He/she is expected to be pro-active in maintaining the school’s grounds to the highest standard and to be driving forward the school’s development plan.
- Oversee the maintenance of essential facilities such as the swimming pool, ensuring safety, cleanliness, and functionality.
- Supervise and manage transportation services, including school buses and other vehicles, ensuring safety, maintenance, and efficient scheduling.
- Implement a comprehensive and efficient maintenance schedule to address general repairs, preventative maintenance, and emergency maintenance requirements.
- Outsourced Services Management
- Manage and supervise the outsourced services, including cleaning and waste management, ensuring service quality, adherence to contracts, and budget control.
- Coordinate with external contractors and service providers to ensure timely delivery of services and quality standards.
- Health & Safety
- Ensure all facilities are compliant with local health, safety, and environmental regulations, and lead efforts in risk management and health & safety initiatives across the campus.
- Regularly assess security protocols, supervising campus security to ensure the safety of students, staff, and visitors.
- Budgeting and Reporting
- Develop and manage the budget for facilities management and related projects, providing detailed reports to the senior management team.
- Monitor expenditure to ensure cost control and optimize operational efficiency.
- Staff Management
- Supervise a team of facilities and maintenance staff, providing leadership and guidance to ensure effective service delivery.
- Manage staffing levels, training, and professional development to ensure a high-performing team.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Facilities Management , Project Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, or a related field.
- Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Facilities Management or Project Management is preferred.
- Proven experience of at least 8-10 years in a similar role, preferably in the management of educational institutions or large-scale facilities with boarding and day students.
- Strong knowledge of project management methodologies and tools.
- In-depth knowledge of facilities management, including maintenance, building operations, utilities management (water, electricity), and transportation systems.
- Solid understanding of health and safety regulations, security, and environmental sustainability practices.
Professional Memberships
- Membership with a recognized professional body such as the Engineering Institution of Zambia (EIZ), Project Management Institute (PMI), or equivalent is highly preferred.
- Any certifications in project management (e.g., PMP, PRINCE2) would be advantageous.
Key Skills and Attributes
- Strong leadership and people management skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to liaise effectively with a wide range of stakeholders including contractors, staff, and senior leadership.
- A high degree of organizational and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and facilities simultaneously.
- Demonstrated ability to develop and manage budgets and financial reports.
- Results-driven with a focus on operational excellence and customer service.
- Ability to work independently and proactively, with a keen eye for detail and high standards of quality.
Application process
Applicants should submit a letter of application and CV together with the names of three referees to: The Principal, Baobab College by e-mail to recruitment@baobabcollege.org. Applications close on 28th February 2025. Baobab College reserves the right to appoint a candidate before the closing date if a suitable candidate is found early.
Baobab College will only communicate with candidates who are short listed for interview. Baobab College is committed to safe recruitment. Any successful applicant will be required to undergo thorough pre-employment checks