Facilities & Operations Manager

About us

Auckland Institute of Studies (AIS) and UP International College (UPIC) are part of the UP Education Group, supporting students to build the skills and confidence to succeed in tertiary study and beyond.

AIS is one of New Zealand’s leading private degree-granting institutions, offering a range of NZQA-approved programmes to domestic and international students. With small class sizes, experienced faculty and a personalised approach to education, AIS provides a supportive learning environment with a strong sense of community.

UPIC prepares international students for university study through specialised Foundation Studies and English language programmes, partnering with the University of Auckland, AUT University and Victoria University of Wellington.

Across both institutions, our people are central to creating welcoming, inclusive learning environments where students from diverse backgrounds can thrive.

To find out more, visit AIS and UP International College .

Full-time | Permanent | On-site

Please note: You will primarily work across the AIS and UPIC campuses in Auckland, with your time split between the two locations. Occasional travel to UPIC’s Wellington campus will also be required.

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Facilities & Operations Manager to oversee day-to-day campus operations, facilities management, and health and safety across Auckland Institute of Studies (AIS) and UP International College (UPIC).

Reporting to the Operations Director, you will lead a team of Campus Operations Coordinators, ensuring consistent service and facilities standards across sites. Your responsibilities will span maintenance and improvement projects, building compliance, contractor management, budgets and emergency preparedness.

Working closely with student services, pastoral care, academic colleagues and UP Education’s Group Facilities team, you will ensure our campuses support student wellbeing and a positive learning experience. This is a hands-on leadership role with the opportunity to develop your team, strengthen systems and drive practical improvements.

Responsibilities include

You will work across the AIS and UPIC campuses in Auckland, with occasional travel to UPIC’s Wellington campus. The role may also require you to respond outside normal business hours to genuine facilities or health and safety emergencies.

About you

You are a practical, approachable leader who can balance day-to-day operational demands with longer-term planning. You take ownership, build effective working relationships and remain calm when urgent issues arise.

We welcome applicants from a range of sectors who bring relevant facilities and operational leadership experience. Previous experience in education is advantageous but not required.

You will bring

A relevant health and safety qualification or certification would be preferred. You will also hold a current First Aid certificate or be willing to obtain one.

An understanding of hazardous substance requirements for facilities containing science laboratories will help you coordinate effectively with specialist staff.

Responsibilities

Lead, coach and develop Campus Operations Coordinators, setting clear priorities and consistent service standards.; Oversee facilities maintenance, repairs and improvement projects, ensuring campuses are well presented and operationally ready.; Manage facilities budgets, capital expenditure planning, procurement and invoice approvals.; Manage relationships with landlords, contractors and suppliers, including negotiating agreements and monitoring performance.; Maintain building compliance and fire safety processes, including Building Warrants of Fitness, compliance schedules and evacuation arrangements.; Lead health and safety risk management, audits, incident investigations and corrective actions.; Maintain emergency preparedness and business continuity plans, supported by training, inductions and regular rehearsals.; Oversee security and access systems, maintain accurate records, and report on facilities performance, risks and compliance.; Coordinate facility-level safety for UPIC’s Auckland science laboratories, working with specialist staff on storage, access, signage and emergency arrangements.; Support smooth day-to-day campus services, including reception, administrative support and operational readiness for orientations and events.

Requirements

Experience in facilities management, site operations or a relevant health and safety leadership role.; Experience leading and developing teams, ideally across multiple locations.; Working knowledge of New Zealand health and safety requirements, building compliance and fire safety processes.; Experience managing contractors, suppliers, operational budgets and capital expenditure.; Sound judgement in risk assessment, incident management and emergency response.; Clear communication skills and confidence working with staff, contractors, regulators and senior leaders.; Cultural awareness and an understanding of the care considerations relevant to diverse student communities, including international learners and students under 18.; A relevant tertiary qualification in facilities management, health and safety, property, engineering, business or a related field, or equivalent relevant experience.

Benefits

Growing and dynamic organisation: Be part of a well-established institution with a strong reputation and continued growth in the education sector.; Forward-thinking environment: Work in an organisation that values innovation, continuous improvement, and high-quality education.; Collaborative and supportive culture: Join a diverse, inclusive community where teamwork, connection, and support are at the heart of everything we do.; Diverse and multicultural community: Work alongside staff and students from a wide range of cultural backgrounds, celebrating global perspectives.; Staff benefits and development: Enjoy access to campus facilities and opportunities for ongoing learning and professional development.