About the Role

The Open University (OU) is the largest university in the United Kingdom and reaches across all four nations. It is a global leader in higher education and research, using a model of open supported learning to deliver world-renowned teaching and learning content to over 200,000 students every year. 

The OU is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, fostering an environment where different perspectives, ideas, knowledge, and cultures are valued and celebrated. We actively encourage applications from all underrepresented groups and strive to create a supportive workplace for all through our policies, services, and staff networks.

As a Carbon Project Manager in Estates you will be responsible for the effective management of carbon reduction projects from inception through to completion, engaging with all areas within Estates and colleagues across the University (Milton Keynes and UK wide Nations and Locations) in delivering a full range of carbon reduction and sustainability projects and behaviour change initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• To assist and support the Energy Manager and the Head of Infrastructure with the implementation of the Open University’s Carbon Reduction Implementation Strategy and delivery of carbon reduction and energy management across the University’s estate.
• You are fully conversant with all aspects of managing a full range of carbon reduction projects from inception to completion, including monitoring and verification. 
• You have proven experience and knowledge of construction Health & Safety, Building Safety Act and the CDM Regulations.
• You can manage the budget provision for each individual project and comply with procurement practices.
• Responsible for the selection of contractors, consultant teams and specialist suppliers with regards to cost, technical competence, quality and safety.
• Responsible for identifying and researching customer and client requirements in relation to specific projects. Plans project works programs identifying and negotiating with clients and other stakeholders.
   

Skills and Experience

Essential:

• BTEC Higher National Diploma, NVQ Level 4, Degree in construction, environmental engineering studies or membership of CIOB, RICS, RIBA or CIBSE.
• Experience of working within an energy management, construction, building services or engineering related field and to lead others and work as part of a team towards successful project completion.
• Knowledge of sustainable and carbon reduction technologies, materials and processes.
• Knowledge of and experience of renewable energy technologies and installations, such as PV panels and GSHP/ASHP.
• Experience of projects to decarbonise heat and hot water across a range of building types.
• Knowledge of and engagement with Carbon Behaviour Change programmes enabling staff to engage in and contribute to the organisation’s carbon reduction.
• A demonstrable knowledge of relevant and applicable energy and carbon related legislation.
• Knowledge and understanding of government strategy and legislation regarding energy and carbon management.
• Knowledge of construction health & safety, Building safety Act and CDM regulations.
• Knowledge of construction contracts, tendering procedures and cost control.
• Knowledge of consultant appointment procedures and agreements.
• Ability to interpret and prepare plans, specifications and design briefs.
• Competent IT skills, including use of Microsoft Office and AutoCAD.
• Ability to plan, organize, work flexibly and manage conflicting priorities, coping with varying demands and high levels of activity.
• Ability to lead and manage external consultants and contractors by setting clear goals, monitoring performance, motivating, empowering and providing feedback.
• Ability to use skill and judgement to solve problems and be able to reach solutions by discussion with others
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing with internal and external stakeholders when carrying out tasks that require explanation
• Ability to build working relationships with customers, key contacts, the rest of the Infrastructure team and the Estates team.
• Ability to influence.
• Ability to remain calm and respond effectively to situations as they arise.
• A strong commitment to excellence in working with a diverse student population
• Willingness to travel to other University premises in the UK and Eire.

Desirable:

• Experience in delivering a net-zero carbon program
• Experience of PSDS or similar grant funded projects
• Experience of district heat networks
• Member of a Chartered body in a construction or M&E related discipline
• Understanding of procurement methods applicable within the public sector
• Proven experience in preparing/managing/controlling budgets and forecasting
• Experience in the understanding of financial reporting systems
• Ability to prepare and give presentations to small groups
• A construction safety qualification.
   

Essential Requirements

As part of the application process, you will be expected to submit your CV and a Supporting Statement (maximum of 1000 words) that demonstrates how you meet the essential criteria listed above. Flexible working patterns will be considered.

It is anticipated that a hybrid working pattern can be adopted for this role, where the successful candidate can work from home and the office. However, as this role is contractually aligned to our Milton Keynes office it is expected that some attendance in the office will be required when necessary and in response to business needs. We anticipate this being 3 days per week.  

Intended Interview Dates: 8 and/or 9th January onsite in Milton Keynes. 

*Early Close: We may choose to close the application date early if we reach a high number of applications. However, if you would still like to apply before the deadline originally advertised do not hesitate to contact us and we can discuss this with the Chair of the panel.