Technical Services Manager

This exciting new role will have responsibility for managing the overall strategic direction and day to day schedule of planned maintenance and repair programmes for all technical aspects of the new premises, acting on behalf of the firm in their capacity as both landlord and tenant. The Technical Services Manager will be responsible for looking after the new building from the day we take possession in the Spring of 2025. As well as this and until the move, planned for the summer of 2026, the Technical Services Manager will be a critical member of the relocation project steering group, which is responsible for planning and implementing the design, fit out, operational set-up, and move. The role requires a strong technical knowledge, leadership abilities, and a focus on delivering high-quality service. As an integral part of the Office Management team, you will be responsible for the financial management of the technical building services, engineering and maintenance, contracts management, regulatory compliance, accreditation, and policies. We are seeking a highly experienced, dynamic, flexible, and motivated individual to join us on this exciting journey and beyond. Key internal contacts Nicky Boss, London Office Manager Key activities/responsibilities

• Contribute to the design of the new building management system and manage on an ongoing basis, addressing any malfunctions or defects.
• Attend regular relocation project steering group meetings and actively participate in their activities to deliver a successful design, fit out and relocation project.
• Develop and implement a preventive maintenance program for all mechanical and electrical equipment and plant; prolong the lifespan of equipment, reduce downtime, and minimise disruptions to services.
• Develop and execute a comprehensive strategic plan for all building technical services.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with external service providers, suppliers, and contractors to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery of services and materials.
• Ensure all KPIs are met or exceeded by service partners, suppliers and contractors and manage issues as appropriate.
• Devise, implement and ongoing review of standard operating procedures and policies ensuring the firm's full compliance with all health & safety regulations, building codes, and environmental standards.
• Ensure the proper maintenance of technical records and ensure all checklists, risk assessments, and compliance documents are complete and up to date.
• Lead on a project to gain ISO45001 accreditation for the firm's London office and support its ongoing retention.
• Act as the Competent Responsible Person for all aspects of HSE and liaise with senior management to ensure they understand their responsibilities.
• Develop CAPEX and OPEX budgets for the budling's technical services and monitor ongoing costs; monitor expenses, identify cost saving opportunities (without compromising quality and safety) and provide regular management reporting.
• Develop and manage the service charge budget.
• Work closely with the Head of Responsible Business to help identify and implement solutions to support the firm's commitment to Net Zero.
• Develop and manage an effective waste management programme, ensuring compliance with IS14001 requirements.
• Work closely with the Head of Responsible Business to support the retention of the London office's ISO14001 accreditation, providing appropriate documents and reports.
• Work closely with the Office Manager and actively contribute to the accreditation and retention of BREAAM, WELL and NABORS.
• Lead a small team of technical and maintenance staff; recruit, train, supervise, and evaluate.
• Manage all construction, renovation, and maintenance projects, ensuring they are completed on time, within budget, and to high-quality standards.
• Build and develop strong relationships with landlords and tenants.
• Seek, monitor, and promptly address feedback related to maintenance and technical services, striving to exceed expectations.
• Work with the Office Manager explore and deliver technology solutions to improve the workplace experience for staff.
• Explore Smart Building technologies to ensure we are leveraging systems to optimize plant, equipment and operating procedures., The Firm promotes a culture of agility and flexibility and is fully supportive of flexible working arrangements where these can be accommodated.
Equal opportunities Respect for different backgrounds and perspectives is at the heart of our firm's core values and we recognise the importance of fostering an inclusive environment that allows everyone to reach their full potential. This is a key feature of our Global Code of Conduct, which places diversity and inclusion at the centre of our firm's ways of working. We believe that exceptional client service can only be delivered by exceptional people. For this reason, we aim to attract, retain and develop the best talent from a wide range of backgrounds. All decisions relating to employment will be objective and based on merit and ability. We are committed to ensuring that our recruitment processes are as inclusive and barrier-free as possible. This includes making adjustments for candidates with a disability or long-term health condition. If you require adjustments to be made at any stage of the recruitment process, we'd encourage you to get in touch with a member of our team who would be happy to discuss options with you.

This role requires a flexible approach to meet the dynamic needs of the business.
• At least ten years' experience working in a similar M&E engineering, HVAC, technical building services or facilities management role, managing either a large single site or multiple commercial sites.
• Bachelor's degree in mechanical/electrical engineering or building services preferable.
• Experience in the legal sector or in a professional services environment.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and comfortable with reading schematics and work plans.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills; fluent in both spoken and written English.
• Experience of working to ISO14001 and ISO45001 standards.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Comprehensive knowledge of legislation and compliance requirements.
• Proven experience of contractor management.
• Strong leadership and management skills in recruitment, training, conducting performance reviews and maximising productivity.
• Proven experience in budget development and management particularly service charge budgeting.
• An understanding of energy and environmental management.
• Proven ability to work independently and influence across the business and support functions.
  
  Watson Farley & Williams is an international law firm advising on complex disputes and transactions through local knowledge and an integrated international network. We have a strong sector focus, combining our technical excellence with deep industry knowledge across Energy, Transport and associated Infrastructure.
The firm has achieved rapid expansion and year-on-year growth owed almost entirely to a focused strategy, strong leadership and the quality of its people. The next stage in the firm's growth plan is to achieve full-service strength within core sectors across the global platform. We strive for excellence in all that we do and view investment in our people as key to achieving our business goals and values, which rest on developing deep and long-lasting relationships externally and internally through respect, sharing, communication and integrity. Our global practice is integrated across our offices in Europe, the Middle East, Asia, Australia and North America delivering consistently high levels of service across borders and locally through a deep understanding of local business customs and culture. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace to attract and retain the most talented people from all backgrounds and cultures. We believe in celebrating difference and that people from any background can rise to the top, ensuring opportunities to develop and progress are available for all. Role overview Watson Farley & Williams LLP is an international law firm with over 200 partners and 19 offices worldwide. We are thrilled to be moving our London operation to a newly redeveloped building located in the City of London, after over 30 years at our current premises.

We offer a competitive benefits and wellbeing package for all employees.