Head of Capital Projects

Head of Capital Projects

Estates & Capital Developments

Location: Aston University Main Campus

Salary: £58,225 to £87,971 per annum

Grade: Grade 10

Contract Type: Permanent

Basis: Full Time

Closing Date: 23.59 hours BST on Sunday 28 June 2026

Interview Date: Tuesday 14 July 2026

Reference: 0858-26

Aston University is entering an important phase in the development of its estate, with a clear need to strengthen how major capital projects are planned, governed and delivered. We are seeking an experienced Head of Capital Projects to help build a modern, professional and high-performing capital delivery function with clear standards, strong controls and confidence in delivery.

Reporting to the Director of Estates and Capital Development, you will provide senior leadership for the planning, governance and delivery assurance of Aston’s capital projects programme. You will ensure projects are delivered safely, compliantly, to quality, and within agreed time and cost parameters, while supporting Aston 2030, the Estates Strategy, statutory obligations and the long-term needs of the University.

This is a significant client-side role with influence across the University. You will strengthen programme controls, gateway assurance, risk and change management, governance reporting, consultant and contractor management, procurement coordination, contract administration, and project handover. You will set clear standards for internal and external delivery resources, reduce ambiguity in project responsibilities, and ensure consultants and contractors are managed effectively.

You will bring significant senior experience of managing a capital projects programme or portfolio, with evidence of delivering complex projects to time, cost and quality. You will have strong commercial judgement, experience of public sector or similarly regulated procurement environments, and a sound understanding of contract management, health and safety, statutory compliance, quality assurance and whole-life value.

We are looking for someone who can set direction, build confidence, improve delivery maturity and develop a capable team through clear standards, disciplined reporting, and constructive scrutiny. You will be an excellent communicator, able to produce high-quality reports for senior stakeholders and committees and turn complex delivery issues into clear recommendations and actions.

This is an opportunity to shape a more professional, transparent and effective capital delivery function at a pivotal point in Aston’s estate development.

What we offer

- Aston University is a vibrant campus located within Birmingham city centre, which has excellent transport links via bus or train.

- Hybrid working is possible for this role, which means working both on campus and from home depending on the activity. Further information on hybrid working can be found on our website.

- Excellent training and development opportunities.

- A generous annual leave scheme with 30 days’ bookable leave and a further 13 days of bank holiday and University closure days.

- Everyday discounts to a number of activities and retailers.

- Great family-friendly policies.

- On-site gym and pool with discounted staff membership available.

- Further information on our Benefits and Rewards can be found on our website.

This role may meet the requirements for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship.

If you require sponsorship, Aston University will assess eligibility if you are shortlisted for the role.

Please note, we are unable to confirm individual eligibility before shortlisting.

For more information on Skilled Worker visa eligibility, please see the relevant UK Government website.

Further details

Anonymous shortlisting will be carried out for this role as part of Aston University’s commitment to equality and diversity and ensuring a fair and consistent approach to recruitment. Personal details that are included on application forms, including the candidate’s name and address, will not be disclosed to the shortlisting panel. CVs will not be considered as part of the shortlisting process.

The University celebrates the rights of freedom of speech and academic freedom and is committed to maintaining and protecting these rights within the law. An offer to work at Aston University will never be denied on the basis of an individual’s lawful expression of their beliefs, ideas or opinions.

Aston University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. It promotes equality and diversity in all aspects of its work. We strive to have robust inclusivity strategies in place to encourage colleagues to have the confidence and freedom to be themselves in the workplace. For more information, visit our website.

Guidance on AI-Assisted Applications

While we cannot prevent applicants from using AI tools to support their application, we ask that all submissions reflect your own experience, achievements, and motivations. We want to understand what you personally bring to the role, so please ensure your application represents your own voice and capabilities.

We recognise the value of flexible working. Please contact the recruiting manager to discuss what flexible working options are available for particular roles.

If you require the job details document or an application form in an alternative format, please contact the recruitment team.

Pay: £58,225.00-£87,971.00 per year

Work Location: In person