Head of Space Planning

The role

We are seeking an exceptional Head of Space Planning to join the University’s Campus Division at a transformative moment for our estate. This role sits within the Campus Strategy & Partnering team and will be central to shaping the long-term vision for a modern, future‑fit campus for a leading Russell Group University.

You will lead the University’s space planning function and play a key role in developing strategies that ensure our buildings, places and spaces meet the evolving needs of our students, staff, and partners. This includes strategic masterplanning, data‑driven analysis, high‑quality design thinking, mapping, and interactive planning.

An opportunity to influence decisions and help shape the estate of a world‑class academic institution.

What will you be doing?

• Leading the space planning function, managing Planning Managers, Analysts and specialist staff.
• Working with the Director of Campus Strategy & Partnering to shape a high‑quality Estates Strategy.
• Translating strategic campus plans into deliverable space plans, work programmes and project proposals.
• Providing expert masterplanning insight, design thinking and data‑led space analysis.
• Overseeing estates data development and presenting recommendations to senior University Boards.
• Collaborating with Academic and Professional Service teams, Capital Projects, Campus Property and consultant teams to deliver integrated, future‑focused planning.

You should apply if

You:

• Bring extensive experience in strategic masterplanning and large‑scale capital project planning.
• Hold a relevant degree or professional qualification (e.g. Strategic Planning, Architecture, Project Management, Asset Management).
• Have strong leadership experience, ideally within the built environment or Higher Education.
• Combine analytical, data‑driven planning with a creative approach to space and place shaping.
• Are confident engaging, influencing and negotiating with senior stakeholders and specialist teams.
• Possess strong commercial awareness and are comfortable working at pace in a complex organisation.

Additional information

Hybrid working is available with a minimum one day per week in office.

This advert will close at 23:59 UK time on: Tuesday 5th May 2026.

For informal queries please contact: Kerry O'Shea, Director of Strategy and Partnering, on Kerry.oshea@bristol.ac.uk

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