Technical Services Manager - RAF Fairford

Who we are

VIVO provides facilities management and accommodation maintenance for the UK military and its partners. VIVO embodies both experience and innovation.

What we do

We put our Customers and Families First. They are the driving force behind everything we do. We drive forward improvements for them to ensure the service they receive, whether reactive repairs or a major project, is completed safely and on time. In order to achieve this, we have 4 core values: open, caring, agile and collaborative. These are at the heart of everything we do.

Location: RAF Fairford (on site role)

Permanent, Full time

Salary: Competitive + Company car/Car allowance

The Technical Services Manager is responsible for providing expert technical leadership in the maintenance and operation of mechanical and HVAC systems across the estate. This role demands in-depth knowledge of mechanical engineering principles and the ability to advise and support both maintenance teams and clients on all matters within the discipline. A central function is to supervise and lead a team of Maintenance Engineers, ensuring the successful delivery of both planned and reactive maintenance services. These responsibilities encompass heating, water services, gas distribution, ventilation, air conditioning, and associated mechanical systems.

Working in close collaboration with the Maintenance Manager and Supervisors, the Technical Services Manager is instrumental in developing and implementing the maintenance programme across the estate. This must align with the organisation’s maintenance strategy and meet all time and performance expectations. Supporting the Built Estate Manager (BEM), the postholder also contributes to the development of maintenance standards and performance measurement systems. A key responsibility is to monitor actual performance against standards and take corrective action when necessary, especially in relation to mechanical systems and equipment.

The role extends to managing external contractors, ensuring all outsourced maintenance or project works meet contractual obligations, professional standards, and health and safety compliance. The Technical Services Manager oversees the full project handover process, including commissioning, operations and maintenance documentation, warranties, and training. Asset registers, PPMs, and drawings are updated accordingly, and any defect liability issues are addressed promptly and effectively.

As a nominated Duty Holder or Authorised, Responsible, or Competent Person, the Technical Services Manager is required to fulfil all compliance responsibilities associated with the position. This includes ensuring that all statutory and mandatory checks are completed and documented. The postholder must maintain a thorough understanding of Health and Safety legislation, regularly attend safety training, and ensure compliance across their team.

Risk Assessments and Method Statements are developed and kept under constant review to ensure safe systems of work. These documents must comply with HSE guidance and reflect industry best practice. The Technical Services Manager is also responsible for ensuring all works are carried out in accordance with established procedures, with complete and accurate records maintained through departmental systems.

The role requires participation in the on-call system to provide cover outside of normal working hours, supporting the BEM in defining key technical staffing requirements. From a leadership perspective, the Technical Services Manager supports the development of a high-performing maintenance team, fostering a culture of professionalism, continuous improvement, and compliance with service level agreements, budgets, and safety regulations. They actively contribute to performance management through clear feedback, recognising high performance and addressing any issues as they arise.

Cross-functional collaboration is critical, and the Technical Services Manager plays a role in promoting teamwork across estates and facilities functions, ensuring a seamless and high-quality service experience for clients. Expectations are clearly communicated to direct reports, and performance is monitored with regular, constructive feedback.

The Technical Services Manager ensures all health and safety documentation, including RAMS, is in place prior to works commencing, whether by internal teams or subcontractors. All maintenance and billable works must be compliant with JSP 375. Inspection reports and certification are reviewed meticulously, with remedial actions correctly identified and processed through the CAFM system to meet statutory requirements.

A commitment to service excellence is paramount, especially in delivering a high-quality experience to a high-profile client. This includes going the extra mile to exceed expectations, leading team briefings, toolbox talks, and sharing technical updates regularly. The Technical Services Manager represents VIVO’s core values and plays a vital role in mentoring apprentices and engaging with end users, DIO representatives, and supply chain partners when necessary.

What You'll Bring

Professionally, the position requires qualifications in mechanical or HVAC engineering. Multi-skilled professionals are preferred, though single-trade applicants will be considered. Candidates must have a sound understanding of Health and Safety regulations, including COSHH and RIDDOR, and significant experience managing engineering teams in a similar environment. A full UK driving licence and the ability to obtain SC-level security clearance are essential. Strong communication skills, punctuality, reliability, and self-motivation are key personal attributes.

Desirable qualifications include experience working on mechanical and HVAC systems in commercial settings, accredited first aid and health and safety qualifications, and membership of a relevant professional body. Previous experience within a MOD environment and current or prior SC clearance would also be advantageous.

This role is suited to a technically skilled, people-focused leader who can drive high standards across maintenance operations while ensuring safety, compliance, and client satisfaction remain central to all activities.

What We Offer

• 25 days annual leave
• Company car/car allowance
• Single private medical cover
• Life assurance 2x annual salary
• 6% employee matched pension contribution

VIVO Defence Services

The role you have applied for is with VIVO Defence Services, a joint venture between Serco and EQUANS. By applying for this role, please be aware that information contained within your CV may be shared between VIVO Defence Services, Serco and EQUANS during the recruitment process.

At VIVO, we are committed to building a diverse and inclusive organisation that supports the needs of all. Therefore, we will make reasonable adjustments at interview through to employment for our candidates and strongly encourage applications from a diverse candidate pool.

We are open to discussions around flexibility and flexible working and operate a hybrid work structure in many of our business areas. We are proudly a Disability Confident Leader. Disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the job will be given the opportunity to demonstrate their abilities at an interview.