Hard Services Unit Head

Job Title: Hard Services Unit HeadRole PurposeThe Hard Services Unit Head is responsible for leading and overseeing all technical building services across Assets, ensuring the Asset’s infrastructure, systems are maintained to world-class standards.

This role manages the delivery of planned and reactive maintenance through the Total Facilities Management (TFM) service provider, ensures compliance with regulatory and safety standards, and supports the operational readiness of the Building. The Unit Head ensures that the museum’s specialized systems (MEP, HVAC, life safety systems, etc.) are optimized to provide a safe, reliable, and sustainable environment for collections, staff, and visitors.Key ResponsibilitiesHard Services ManagementOversee the performance of the TFM service provider in delivering all hard services (MEP, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, fire & life safety systems, elevators, etc.).Ensure timely delivery of preventive, predictive, and corrective maintenance in line with KPIs and SLAs.Lead technical reviews of maintenance schedules, asset lifecycle plans, and system upgrades.Specialized Systems OversightEnsure critical museum infrastructure, including environmental controls, lighting, and mechanical systems, meet conservation and operational standards.Collaborate with Conservation and Collections teams to align hard services with collection care needs (e.g., humidity, temperature, dust, vibration controls).Support integration of CAFM and monitoring systems to improve reporting and performance tracking.Compliance & Risk ManagementEnsure all hard services comply with UAE regulatory requirements, safety codes, and museum policies.Conduct risk assessments for technical systems and oversee mitigation plans.Lead incident investigations related to technical failures, reporting findings and corrective actions.Sustainability & InnovationDrive energy efficiency initiatives and support the museum’s environmental sustainability objectives.Explore and implement innovative technologies to enhance system reliability and sustainability.Monitor and optimize energy and utility usage, reducing costs and environmental impact.Vendor & Stakeholder CoordinationAct as the key liaison with the TFM service provider for hard services delivery.Coordinate with external contractors, consultants, and authorities for inspections, certifications, and upgrades.Support capital projects, refurbishment, and handover of new systems, ensuring technical compliance.Leadership & ReportingLead and mentor the Hard Services team, ensuring skills and competencies meet technical demands.Review contractor and consultant performance against contracts and museum standards.Provide regular reports to the Facilities Management Section Head on performance, risks, and opportunities for improvement.Experience & QualificationsEducationBachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Facilities Engineering, or related field. Master’s preferred.Experience7+ years of experience in hard services/FM, with relevant experience in a leadership role.Proven experience managing hard services in large, complex facilities (preferably museums, cultural, or scientific institutions).Strong background in managing outsourced TFM contracts, including KPIs, SLAs, and vendor relations.SkillsStrong technical knowledge of MEP systems, building automation, and life safety systems.Excellent leadership, vendor management, and negotiation skills.Strong analytical, reporting, and problem-solving abilities.Proficiency in CAFM systems, asset management, and MS Office applications.Fluency in English required; Arabic is an advantage