Head: Sanlam Facilities & Real Estate at Sanlam Group

Purpose of the role

• The Head: Sanlam Facilities & Real Estate is a dynamic and experienced leader with a proven track record, responsible for managing Sanlam’s extensive and diverse portfolio of facilities.
• This role ensures the delivery of high-quality, competitive services that meet and align with user requirements.
• The Sanlam Facilities & Real Estate team is responsible for managing approximately 300,000m² of building infrastructure and associated facilities services that support the Sanlam Group’s operations across South Africa.
• The team oversees a wide range of service offerings, including but not limited to: Building Facilities Management, Contracts Management, Real Estate Management, Electrical Mechanical Services, Data Center Management, Catering, Business Support Services, Occupational Health and Safety, Risk Management, Compliance and Self-performed services.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee the effective management of all Facilities and Real Estate service offerings, including those delivered through outsourced service providers.
• Lead and manage the Sanlam Facilities & Real Estate (SF&RE) team to ensure high performance and alignment with strategic objectives.
• Manage the SF&RE budget, ensuring sound financial planning, control, and reporting.
• Identify and mitigate risks related to facilities and real estate operations.
• Lead crisis and emergency management efforts, ensuring readiness and effective response.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations and standards, including Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) management.
• Oversee and manage facilities-related projects, from planning through to execution.
• Negotiate and manage contracts and service level agreements with vendors and service providers.
• Drive and support change management initiatives within the facilities and real estate environment.

Qualifications and experience

• A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree with a focus on commercial subjects and/or Facilities Management.
• A Chartered Accountant (CA) qualification will be considered an added advantage.
• Relevant certifications in Property or Facilities Management, as well as contract administration, will be beneficial.
• At least 8 years of experience in Facilities Management within a medium to large-sized organisation.
• A minimum of 5 years’ experience in a senior management role.
• Demonstrated business acumen with a strong commitment to customer service excellence

Technical skills

• In-depth knowledge of the building and construction industry.
• Strong technical expertise across various Facilities Management disciplines.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, Teams, and PowerPoint.
• Experience in equipment life cycle management.
• Solid understanding of property and contract law.
• Knowledge of data centre infrastructure management.
• Familiarity with relevant laws and regulations governing facilities and real estate.
• Understanding of construction processes, architectural principles, and key systems such as HVAC and electrical infrastructure.

Key competencies and skills

• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Proven ability to persuade, influence, and negotiate effectively at all levels.
• Strategic and innovative thinker, capable of aligning client vision and strategy with the objectives of the Facilities Department.
• Strong decision-making abilities, balancing short-term priorities with long-term organisational goals.
• Skilled in managing strategic change and driving initiatives to successful outcomes.
• Solid budgeting experience with strong financial and accounting acumen.
• Demonstrated leadership capabilities, with the ability to inspire and manage diverse teams.
• Excellent problem-solving and organisational skills.
• In-depth knowledge of Service Level Agreements (SLAs) and experience in managing service and rental contracts.

Leadership skills

• Demonstrated leadership and team management experience.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence and collaborate across all levels.
• Proven ability to build and maintain trusted relationships with key stakeholders.
• Strategic and visionary leadership capabilities.

Personal attributes

• High ethical standards and integrity.
• Detail-oriented with excellent organisational skills.
• Resilient under pressure, with the ability to meet tight deadlines.
• Strategic thinker with sound business acumen.
• Calm, composed, and able to manage stress effectively.
• Skilled in balancing stakeholder needs and expectations.

Competencies

• Digital leadership (Tech savvy, Cultivates innovation, Strategic Mindset)
•  Agile leadership (Manages ambiguity, Manages complexity, Drives Results)
•  Human-centered leadership (Instils trust, Build effective teams, Drives engagement)