University of Lincoln - Head of Accommodation

HEAD OF ACCOMMODATION

CANDIDATE INFORMATION PACK

CONTENTS

ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY

Situated in the heart of a historic city on the beautiful Brayford Pool Wa- terfront, the University of Lincoln is proud of its reputation for putting students at the heart of everything it does. We are ranked in the top 30 UK universities for student sat- isfaction in the Guardian University Guide 2023, listed in the worldís top 130 universities in the Times Higher Educationís (THE) Young University Rankings 2022, and hold a top five- star score overall in the QS Stars rat- ing system of global universities. The University of Lincoln is a uni- versity of and for the 21st Century. Dynamic, enterprising, and globally connected. We nurture talent and ideas, contribute globally by creat- ing and sharing knowledge, and de- monstrably help to transform lives and communities for the better. We were established in 1996, in one building on a brownfield site. Charged with enriching the cityís economic, social, and cultural life, we were named the University of Lincoln in 2001. Since then, we have grown into a flourishing anchor insti- tution that contributes over £400m to the local economy. Throughout this exciting period of development, we have been guided by a consist- ent set of principles: excellence in teaching, learning, and quality of student experience; responsiveness to the needs of communities and or- ganisations; and working in partner- ship to make great things happen. ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY

CAMPUS

This strategic plan, covering the pe- riod to 2027, marks a major point in our history as we focus on realis- ing our long-term ambition of being seen as a university that contributes significantly to the nationís success through regional regeneration and international connectivity. Achieving this vision will require us to look outwards, attracting talent and ideas from around the world, to improve communities beyond, as well as within, our city and region. We must deliver the most appropri- ate educational courses, provide the best student experience, and con- duct the most relevant research. Our academic structures, support ser- vices, physical and digital infrastruc- ture, and processes must be fit for purpose. By 2027, we expect to have a larger and more international student body with a higher proportion of post- graduate taught students; a greater diversity of programme types and delivery mechanisms; a larger re- search order book with more staff conducting internationally recog- nised research; more and stronger partnerships with external organi- sations; greater income from con- sultancy and licensing; and a higher proportion of international staff. At the same time, we must maintain our reputation for civic engagement, and for a committed staff community that delivers a supportive and stimu- lating student experience.

COMMERCIAL AND CAMPUS SERVICES

ACCOMMODATION

SUSTAINABILITY & NET ZERO

WORKING AT THE UNIVERSITY OF LINCOLN

JOB DESCRIPTION

PERSON SPECIFICATION

HOW TO APPLY

CAMPUS

The University estates comprises 130 buildings providing over 238,000m2 of Gross Internal Area (GIA). The University owns the freehold of 85.7% of the Estate, with the remaining 14.3% being leased. In 2014, the estate was valued at £217m and in 2020 a reinstatement cost assessment returned an overall figure of £340m.

The University has three campus locations:

Brayford Campus - The Campus is located on a former railway mar- shalling yard which had become largely derelict by the 1970s. The site was remediated by the County Council in the 1990s and the Brayford Way flyo- ver constructed which improved access to the site. The first building was constructed in 1996 (Min- erva Building). Since then a modern city centre campus has been constructed, which blends new buildings with the sympathetic restoration of two Victorian railway buildings ña goods warehouse (the University Library building) and Engine Shed (Studentsí Union building). The University has recently opened a purpose-built facility to house the Lincoln Medical School which will be carbon neutral in operation ñ the first building of its kind in Lincolnshire. Riseholme Park Campus – This is a 400-acre campus to the north of Lin- coln set in designated historic parkland devoted primarily to agricultural research. The site is home to the Lincoln Institute of Agri-food Tech- nology (LIAT), a Barclays Eagle Lab and various agri-tech SMEs. It is also home to a working farm. Holbeach Campus ñ The Holbeach campus is c.50 miles to the south of Lincoln and is currently comprised of four buildings: Minerva House and the National Centre for Food Manufacturing (NCFM) on Park Road and on the Food Enterprise Zone (FEZ) ñ the newly completed Centre of Excellence for Agri-Food Technology and Institute of Technology.

COMMERCIAL AND CAMPUS SERVICES The Commercial and Campus Services department oversees Student Accommodation, Conferencing, Catering, Sports and Retail and is focused on adding value to the university community and student hat’s why we offer the support of our Residential Warden Team in addition to ur Accommodation Services Team. Our Residential Wardens are here to ease your ansition to university and are the first port f call for any accommodation queries or ersonal matters you may have. Pricing Our accommodation options meet a range f needs and budgets, with prices starting Our accommodation options meet a range of needs and budgets, with prices starting University residence for extra peace of mind. See our website for more information. experience by providing an exemplary service and delivering quality products and services to exceed customersí expectations, whilst delivering a financial surplus so that the university can reinvest in achieving its strategic purpose, vision and ambition. om as little as £92 per week for 2022 ntry. We include utility bills, WiFi and ersonal possessions insurance in the ent, so there’s no need to worry about dditional costs or splitting bills with your ousemates. To see the most up-to-date nformation on pricing and contract lengths or all of our residences, please visit our website. Here to Help from as little as £92 per week for 2022 entry. We include utility bills, WiFi and personal possessions insurance in the rent, so there’s no need to worry about additional costs or splitting bills with your housemates. To see the most up-to-date information on pricing and contract lengths for all of our residences, please visit our website. Here to Help Our Accommodation Services Team is ere to help you find the right home for ou, so if you need any help or advice, on’t be afraid to get in touch. You can all them on 01522 886300 or email Our Accommodation Services Team is here to help you find the right home for you, so if you need any help or advice, don’t be afraid to get in touch. You can call them on 01522 886300 or email accommodation@lincoln.ac.uk . You can also meet them in person at one of our on- campus events. ccommodation@lincoln.ac.uk . You can lso meet them in person at one of our on- ampus events. Head of Accommodation that’s why we offer the support of our Residential Warden Team in addition to our Accommodation Services Team. Our Residential Wardens are here to ease your transition to university and are the first port of call for any accommodation queries or personal matters you may have. Pricing ter which e, you will . What’s more, ould need is u may never transport. u could enjoy pendent coffee s in one of We guarantee all new students a home in a or plan a day ric Cathedral enities, there nd shops as an on-site acilities. never lived our residences sense of ake friends. wo Student pose-built n Courts, Viking Gateway, e standalone urt and 179 ut more about There’s also help you get a located.

that’s why we offer the support of our Residential Warden Team in addition to our Accommodation Services Team. Our Residential Wardens are here to ease your transition to university and are the first port of call for any accommodation queries or personal matters you may have. Pricing Our accommodation options meet a range of needs and budgets, with prices starting from as little as £92 per week for 2022 entry. We include utility bills, WiFi and personal possessions insurance in the rent, so there’s no need to worry about additional costs or splitting bills with your housemates. To see the most up-to-date information on pricing and contract lengths for all of our residences, please visit our website. Here to Help Our Accommodation Services Team is here to help you find the right home for you, so if you need any help or advice, don’t be afraid to get in touch. You can call them on 01522 886300 or email accommodation@lincoln.ac.uk . You can also meet them in person at one of our on- campus events. Head of Commercial and Conferencing Catering Manager Chief Operating Officer Commercial Director Your Guide to Our Accommodation Find Your Home from Home

Executive Assistant

Sports Centre Manager

Head of Accommodation

Head of Accommodation (Services)

Head of Accommodation (Operations)

Business Process Manager

ACCOMMODATION

Customer Relations Manager

Accommodation Manager x3

Sales and Marketing Manager

One of the many reasons our students love Lincoln is because they feel so at home with us. We offer a range of well-equipped, contemporary accommodation options with additional support on hand just in case. Thanks to our fantastic location in the heart of Lincoln, no matter which accommodation they choose, new students will never be far from the action. Whatís more, as almost everything is within walking distance, they may never need to use a car or public transport. Within just a short walk, they enjoy some down time in an independent coffee house, catch up with friends in one of the cityís bars and eateries, or plan a day out exploring Lincolnís historic Cathedral Quarter. For day-to-day amenities, there are several supermarkets and shops within easy access, as well as an on-site laundry, and bike storage facilities.

The residential experience is recognised as a critical element of student life at the University of Lincoln; accordingly, over the last few years, the University embarked on a transformational change programme and now manages and controls over 4,400 Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) bed spaces all either on, or very close to our Brayford campus in Lincoln. In addition to direct operation, the University continues to work with private provider partners in the provision additional PBSA bed spaces, the vast majority of which are also proximate to the campus. The University of Lincolnís two Student Villages are made up of purpose-built complexes including Lincoln Courts, Viking House, Cygnet Wharf, The Gateway, and St Marks. We also have standalone residences in Valentine Court and 179 High Street.

Assistant Customer Relations Manager

Business Process Administrator

Team Leader x2

Accommodation Technicians x20

Accommodation Officer x3

Administrator x4

Administrator

Clerical Assistant x12 FTE

Accommodation Officer x3

SUSTAINABILITY & NET ZERO

Carbon Reduction The University approved new carbon reduction targets in 2021/22: ï 60% reduction in Carbon Emissions by 2030 (against our 2009/10 baseline). ï Net Zero emissions by 2040. The Carbon Management Plan for 2030 was published and sets out the actions we are taking to reduce emissions in line with our 2030 target. As shown in figure 2, carbon emissions from energy and fuel use increased slightly from 6,634 tonnes CO2e in 2020/21, to 6,741 tonnes in 2021/22. This is due to an increase in GIA from new buildings such as St. Marks Student Accommodation and the acquisition of Lawress Hall at Riseholme. The amount of energy consumed across our estate increased from 33.4 GWh in 2020/21 to 35.4 GWh in 2021/22. Energy pric- es also increased significantly during this period. This presented challenges for budget forecasting and management. An addi- tional £530k was made available for energy bills. The Sustain- ability Team worked closely with Colleges and Departments to manage consumption and reduce energy wastage. The Sustain- ability Team are undertaking a Net Zero Feasibility Study, to de- velop a ëglide pathí to Net Zero by 2040. This will be delivered by May 2023, alongside new Estates Masterplans for the Brayford and Riseholme campuses. Travel The Staff and Student Travel Survey was conducted in October 2021. This data is analysed to inform travel policies, projects and infrastructure. Student engagement Climate Week was delivered in October 2021, which involved a full week of Climate Action engagement activities. Highlights included a Climate Action Art Exhibition and a Schools Engage- ment Day. The Sustainability team have supported the devel- opment of Education for Sustainable Development and worked with academic colleagues to embed sustainability within teach- ing and learning.

At the University staff have access to an attractive and extensive reward and benefits package that enhances both their professional and personal lives. Professional services staff are afforded a generous annual leave entitlement of 30 days that is offered in addition to 14 bank holiday and concessionary days. The University of Lincoln offers the industry-leading range of pension schemes with generous employer contribution levels and a range of extra benefits. Pensions ñ Human Resources (lincoln.ac.uk) The University provides a varied and comprehensive offering to aid staff in personal and professional devel- opment. The University provides a varied and comprehensive offering of lifestyle and financial well-being schemes to staff. You can learn more about the comprehensive and diverse range of benefits here Benefits ñ Human Re- sources (lincoln.ac.uk) WORKING AT THE UNIVERSITY OF LINCOLN

JOB DESCRIPTION

JOB TITLE

Head of Accommodation Commercial & Campus Services

ute to the student recruitment agenda (through the provision of attractive, high-quality, well-managed, safe and secure student accommodation); and, to optimise commercial returns. The role requires a comprehensive understanding of student accommodation, collaborative working across all departments and colleges and will require the presentation of reports and papers with options appraisals and recommendations, drawing on Uni- versity data as well as relevant information from the broader sector and beyond. KEY RESPONSIBILTIES Strategic Leadership and Vision ï To develop and implement a strategy for all ar- eas of Accommodation Services, maximising the potential of all operations consistent with the broader objectives of Commercial/Campus Services and the wider University. Maintain a current working knowledge of the sector, local provisions and emerging best practice to ensure that strategies are relevant and optimal. ï To be the lead in the University for accommo- dation related services and strategies. Work effectively with Commercial/Campus Services and the wider University management to plan and provide an accommodation provision that meets student needs and maximises opportu- nities and resources to drive financial contribu- tion. ï To take ownership of, and ensure delivery against, the University Accommodation Strate- gy, including the development of, and reporting against, a suite of key performance indicators (both commercial and non-commercial). Devel- op comprehensive benchmarking processes to measure success. This includes responsibili- ty for ensuring that there is a cross University understanding of the accommodation arrange- ments and the institutional wide impact it has. Leadership & Management ï To develop, and provide inspirational leader- ship to an effective, motivated and highly-skilled team and enable them to fulfil their potential. Mentor, appraise and develop the management team to ensure their growth and well-being, to ensure team working, high performance and loyalty. Provide inspiration, motivation and en- couragement to staff to give their best and de- liver customer-centric innovative accommoda- tion services in a consistent manner across all accommodation developments. ï To drive cultural change and operational pro- cess improvement within the Accommodation

team, establishing common values and ensur- ing cross functional teamwork. ï To ensure that all Accommodation staff receive appropriate training and performance devel- opment to maximise productivity and job fulfil- ment. ï To ensure that the recruitment, deployment and management of accommodation staff is in ac- cordance with business objectives and adheres to University policy. Work with other Commer- cial Service teams and University departments to ensure legal and University requirements are met.. Collaboration ï To ensure that, working closely with the Uni- versityís Communication, Development and Marketing team, the positive impact on student recruitment resulting from the Universityís ex- cellent student accommodation proposition is maximised. ï To ensure, through innovation and entrepreneur- ialism and collaborating closely with University colleagues and partners, that the Accommoda- tion team contributes significantly to the Univer- sityís income generation agenda. ï To take the institutional lead, collaborating with colleagues from across the University and be- yond, in ensuring the continuous improvement of the student experience, and measuring and reporting on progress to the Commercial Direc- tor and Senior Leadership Team. ï To work closely with other areas of Commercial and Campus Services to ensure that all areas are fully supported with their objectives. ï Provide innovative solutions and recommenda- tion regarding how accommodation service can contribute towards income generation. ï To ensure, working in close partnership with colleagues in Estates and with third party devel- opers, that any new accommodation develop- ments or acquisitions are intelligently designed to enhance the lived student experience and to facilitate effective and efficient long-term oper- ation and return on investment. ï To ensure, working closely with colleagues in Estates, that accommodation investment is appropriately prioritised and scheduled, in the context of the relevant financial models. Financial Responsibility ï To hold responsibility for the Accommodation budget, ensuring effective budget planning/ preparation, maximising income generation and controlling expenditure to ensure financial tar-

gets, operational objectives and customer sat- isfaction targets are met through the effective utilisation of all resources. This will include cre- ating and presenting business cases as appro- priate. Systems ï To develop and implement IT systems to ensure future plans of the department are accommo- dated both in the short term and longer term, and that there is integration, where appropriate, with other departmental and University systems. ï To lead the Project Board for all accommodation related projects. Continuous Improvements ï To continually evaluate the existing service pro- vision taking account feedback and broader de- velopments in the external marketplace, report on these to the Commercial Director and senior management with options and recommenda- tions for improvements to provisions and pro- cesses that will drive revenue generation and service improvement. ï To ensure that, working in close partnership with colleagues in Estates and Health & Safety, University-managed accommodation meets the requirements outlined in the UUK Code of Prac- tice for University Managed Student Accommo- dation and other statutory requirements. ï To regularly develop, review and update policies and procedures for the Accommodation depart- ment. Engagement ï Build and maintain relationships internally and with a wide range of external stakeholders. This includes identifying and leading on any external networking requirements, particularly across the Higher Education sector. Drive improvement through engagement with professional bodies, conferences and work with other stakeholders. Customer Service ï To take often sensitive decisions (including, but not limited to, student requests for release from contract) and to take the lead in dialogue with resident students (and their parents and spon- sors) in the resolution of complaints. ï To oversee the management and resolution of all complaints received by the accommodation service, including conducting detailed investi- gations as required. Reviewing outcomes and identifying areas of the service where improve- ments could be made.

DEPARTMENT

LOCATION

Lincoln Campuses

GRADE

REPORTS TO

Commercial Director

CONTEXT The Commercial and Campus Services department oversees Student Accommodation, Conferencing, Catering, Sports and Retail and is focused on add- ing value to the university community and student experience by providing an exemplary service and delivering quality products and services to exceed customersí expectations, whilst delivering a finan- cial surplus so that the university can reinvest in achieving its strategic purpose, vision and ambition. The residential experience is recognised as a critical element of student life at the University of Lincoln; accordingly, over the last few years, the Universi- ty embarked on a transformational change pro- gramme and now manages and controls over 4,400 Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) bed spaces all either on, or very close to our Brayford campus in Lincoln. In addition to direct operation, the University continues to work with private pro- vider partners in the provision additional PBSA bed spaces, the vast majority of which are also proxi- mate to the campus. In the context of a projected 2022/23 turnover of £25m+ in accommodation, we are looking to appoint a Head of Accommodation who will report directly to the Commercial Director. This is a demanding but rewarding role, requiring an outstanding leader, with excellent communication and influencing skills, who is able to balance the absolute requirement to deliver value for money and an excellent student ex- perience (working closely with the Student Services and Residence Life teams) with the need to ensure that the University generates and optimises com- mercial returns from its student accommodation. JOB PURPOSE The Head of Accommodation will lead on all accom- modation related activity and the development and implementation of the university accommodation strategy and supporting policies/procedures, en- suring they align with both departmental aims and to the university Strategic Plan. The post holder will develop and lead a high per- forming, efficient team including planning and di- recting activities to ensure that it is fit-for-purpose, with the necessary skills, capacity and culture to: deliver an excellent student experience; contrib-

PERSON SPECIFICATION QUALIFICATIONS Essential: ï Degree or equivalent Desirable: ï Relevant postgraduate qualification EXPERIENCE Essential: ï Experience in a leadership role in the student accommodation or hotel indus- try. ï Experience of leading a team to deliver on multiple fronts under pressure. ï Experience of successfully driving and

Business Continuity Planning ï To be responsible for the development of business continuity plans to be invoked in the context of a range of potential in- cidents (ranging, for example, from a short-term power failure, total building failure and the late delivery of a student accommodation developments) and to take a central leadership role in the event of an incident. ï To respond to out of hours emergencies in line with University and Accommoda- tion procedures and continuity planning and act as part of the Accommodation out of hours Duty Manager rota. In addition to the above, undertake such duties as may reasonably be requested and that are commensurate with the nature and grade of the post. Additional Information Scope and dimensions of the role The Head of Accommodation is required to have a track record of achievement in man- agement in a student accommodation or similar environment, in either the public or private sector. Positive and purposeful, the Head of Accommodation will have a strong commitment to customer service; strong commercial acumen; capacity for innovative thinking; a strong aptitude for partnership working; expertise in the successful devel- opment and implementation of business processes and process change; excellent communication and interpersonal skills; and an empathy with the place of universities in modern society and the role of professional services within higher education. KEY WORKING RELATIONSHIPS Internal ï Commercial Director as line manager ï Senior Leadership Team ï Heads of Professional Services ï Staff in Estates ï Studentsí Union Leaders and officers ï Staff in Accommodation Operations/ Services ï Student Services ï Residence Life Team External ï ASRA ï Private accommodation provider part- ners ï Lincolnshire Fire & Rescue Service

leading change to deliver significant improvements in customer service.

SKILLS & KNOWLEDGE Essential:

ï A good understanding of the factors which influence student residential life and of the associated impact on broad- er student experience and success. ï A good understanding of student resi- dential statutory compliance issues. ï Financially literate with good commer- cial acumen. ï Strong influencing and negotiating skills, with the ability to engage peers, col- leagues and external partners in areas of focus and priority COMPETENCIES & PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES Essential: ï Strong communication and interperson- al skills ï A dynamic leader committed to contin- uous improvement and the pursuit of excellence in service provision. ï An excellent networker able to build consensus and work collaboratively across and beyond their organisation to deliver on objectives. BUSINESS REQUIREMENTS Essential: ï The nature of the work may require some duties to be performed in the eve- nings and / or weekends

EQUALITY, DIVERSITY, AND INCLUSION

We are One Community, with staff and students working together to create an environment in which all people can flourish based on their abilities and their diverse and rich experiences. Equality, diversity and inclusion are essential values for our University to deliver on its civic mission. We are a member of the Race Equality Charter and hold an Athena Swan Bronze Award. However we are not complacent; we know there is much more to do to tackle inequality, prejudice, and discrimination within our own community and wider society. Race Equality Charter The University of Lincoln, UK, has received the prestigious Race Equality Charter Bronze Award for its efforts to tackle racial inequality. The University of Lincoln is 1 of only 21 UK universities to hold the Bronze Award status from Advance HE, which recognises the work the University is doing to identify and reflect on institutional and cultural barriers facing Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic staff and students. Staff and students from across the University have played a huge part in the University gaining this

recognition, including the self-assessment team. The self-assessment team, led by Simon Parks, was comprised of staff and students from across the university community, who directed our approach and gathered intelligence for our submission. The Eleanor Glanville Centre has been instrumental in driving the REC forward and producing the University’s submission and action plan. Looking forward, the University will be establishing a formal committee, ensuring the hard work continues to tackle racial inequality. The University will also be consistently engaging with staff and students from across the University to ensure all voices are heard and all members of our One Community have the At the University of Lincoln we are One Community and strive to be kind, patient and supportive of each other. Our One Community Values define our One Community ethos and are a framework to ensure that respectful and inclusive behaviours are at the heart of all we do – for each other, our partners and our customers (internally and externally), both in our opportunity to contribute. One Community Values

thoughts and our actions. Our One Community Values: Equality, Understanding, Listening, Kindness, and Acceptance. The Eleanor Glanville Centre The Eleanor Glanville Centre is our department for diversity and inclusion. Aligning with our motto, ‘Libertas per Sapientiam’ (‘Through Wisdom, Liberty’), our interdisciplinary research advances knowledge on critical issues of equality, diversity, and inclusion. The centre is named after Lincolnshire’s Lady Eleanor Glanville, a 17th Century pioneer – and ‘the first woman’ of British natural history. The Lincoln Equality of Attainment Project (LEAP) We are committed to the equality of attainment amongst all of our students, regardless of background or circumstances. We strive to provide a nurturing and inclusive learning community and a high-quality educational experience for everyone. We, like other UK universities, have identified differential outcomes in student performance between different groups on the basis of race, gender, socio-economic background and disability. This is a

University-wide initiative examining the differential outcomes (attainment gaps) and working to address these through a range of initiatives including more inclusive curricula. Access and Participation Our access and participation work reaches out into communities with traditionally low levels of access to higher education. We are a founding partner of LiNCHigher, the Lincolnshire outreach network which aims to raise awareness of, and aspirations to, higher education among local young people. We provide a Foundation Year for many of our undergraduate programmes and actively encourage applications from students from different backgrounds. Our sponsorship of the Lincolnshire Educational Trust (a family of Academy schools in southern Lincolnshire) works to raise educational aspirations and attainment in rural areas, while our involvement in the Lincolnshire Children’s University offers children from all backgrounds the opportunity to enrich their learning experiences. Find out more here Equality and Diversity | One Community | University of Lincoln

The University of Lincoln is being supported on this recruitment campaign by the search consultancy MRG. To arrange a confidential briefing conversation please contact our advisors Hannah Searle hannah.searle@mrgpeople.co.uk 07966 827 413 David Craven david.craven@mrgpeople.co.uk 07932 717 438

Applications should consist of a comprehensive CV (of not more than 4 pages) and a covering letter (of not more than 2 pages, addressing the Person Specification).

Applications should be sent to universityoflincoln@mrgpeople.co.uk

The closing date for applications is 19th March 2023.

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