Director of Repairs & Maintenance

Thirteen Group are a charitable housing association that provides housing and support services across the North East of England, Yorkshire, and the Humber. Managing over 35,000 homes, we offer safe and supportive living environments to more than 73,000 people. Their commitment extends beyond housing— they aim to deliver exceptional service to our residents through various support initiatives.

They are currently seeking an experienced leader to join the team as Director of Repairs and Maintenance. Reporting to the Executive Director of Customer Services, this pivotal role will oversee the strategic planning and delivery of the repairs, empty homes, and compliance services. The successful candidate will ensure that they continue to meet legal, regulatory, and customer standards while maintaining a focus on service quality, safety, and commercial viability.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic leadership for the delivery of responsive repairs, empty homes, and compliance services, ensuring adherence to all statutory and regulatory requirements.
• Ensure exceptional service delivery, focusing on customer satisfaction while maintaining safety and compliance.
• Lead cultural change initiatives to embed a zero-accident approach across the organisation.
• Drive continuous improvement in service performance, aiming to reduce costs and improve efficiency across all areas.
• Oversee contractor and supply chain management, ensuring robust contract oversight and value for money.
• Lead on operational planning and budgeting to ensure the efficient delivery of repairs and maintenance services within financial targets.
• Contribute to the Senior Leadership Team in shaping the strategic direction of the organisation, fostering a high-performance, commercially-driven culture.

Qualifications and Experience:

• A degree or relevant professional qualification (e.g., RICS, CIOB), or equivalent experience.
• Proven track record of strategic leadership within repairs and maintenance operations, with the ability to manage diverse teams and drive service improvements.
• In-depth knowledge of property maintenance legislation and compliance, with strong project management and problem-solving skills.
• Experience in contractor management, including bidding and tender processes.
• A skilled negotiator and communicator, able to influence at all levels, with a strong commitment to customer service.

This is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of repairs and maintenance at Thirteen Group, ensuring the delivery of excellent, customer-focused services while driving innovation and efficiency. If you are a dynamic leader with a passion for service improvement and a strong commercial focus, we would love to hear from you.