Head of Residences Services (University Sector) - #1720932

Join to apply for the Head of Residences Services (University Sector) role at Cardiff University / Prifysgol Caerdydd

This position is currently open to Cardiff University employees only. Please do not apply if you do not have a current contract of employment with the University.

Cardiff University is an ambitious and innovative institution located in a vibrant capital city. Residences provide accommodation for approximately 5,500 students and include conference, events, and summer accommodation services. We are committed to delivering a professional, customer-focused service to a diverse community.

• Lead and manage Residences Services teams, ensuring clear communication of objectives, planning, organizing, delegating, and monitoring progress.


• Oversee day-to-day operations of accommodation services, compliance with contractual and legal standards, handling customer queries and disciplinary matters, and managing conference and summer services.


• Ensure safety, health, environment, and wellbeing standards are maintained, including fire safety, legionella control, asbestos management, and sustainability initiatives.


• Provide pastoral care and support for students, liaising with Residence Life, Student Life, Security, Students’ Union, and academic departments.


• Manage partnerships with Facilities/Estates teams to ensure maintenance and safety standards are met, including electrical safety, gas, waste management, grounds, pest control, and electronic access control.


• Develop and manage budgets, maximize income, control expenditure, and support rent collection.


• Manage contracts, procurement, and tendering processes for Residences Services.


• Contribute to strategic planning and long-term development of Campus and Residences Services.


• Oversee team performance, induction, development, and welfare, ensuring service level agreements are met and adapting to changing demands.


• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to improve service delivery and develop operational processes.


• Lead during busy periods such as arrivals, departures, conferences, and open days, which may require working additional hours, including weekends.

Please demonstrate how you meet all the essential criteria below, providing specific examples of your experience, skills, and knowledge.

• Relevant degree, NVQ 4, or equivalent work-related experience.


• Extensive experience in accommodation management, with a focus on customer needs and service quality.


• Significant experience managing teams, including handling performance, pastoral care, and welfare issues.


• Knowledge of administrative systems, processes, and developing new procedures.


• Ability to establish and develop accommodation systems and procedures.


• Effective communication skills for diverse audiences.


• Experience managing multiple teams and priorities.


• Proven ability to solve complex problems and research issues independently.


• Experience planning work over long-term periods, reacting to strategic and operational changes.


• Experience managing budgets, income maximization, and expenditure control.

• Experience working with students on pastoral or welfare issues.


• Experience delivering conferences and events.


• Experience in a Higher Education setting.


• Postgraduate or professional qualification.


• Willingness to learn or proficiency in Welsh.

Additional responsibilities include managing out-of-hours emergencies, ensuring confidentiality, health and safety compliance, and promoting equality and diversity. Flexibility in working hours is required during peak periods.

Salary Range: £51,039 - £55,755 per annum (Grade 7). This role involves a combination of on-campus and home working. Fixed term until 31 July 2026.