The University of Botswana (UB), a premier state-owned tertiary institution dedicated to shaping the future through excellence, research, innovation and meaningful societal impact, invites applications from accomplished and suitably qualified professionals for the position of Manager: Estates Management in the Department of Facilities Management . JOB PURPOSE The Manager: Estates Management is responsible for overseeing the efficient and effective management of all University-owned properties and facilities. The successful candidate will work closely with the Head of Infrastructure Planning and Development and other stakeholders to ensure that the campus environment is well-maintained, sustainable and supports the overall mission of the University. This includes administration of land holdings and title records, lease and commercial lettings, space planning and allocation, staff housing, property acquisitions and disposals, valuations and the estates asset register.
Job Summary
- Employer: University of Botswana
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Gaborone, Botswana
- Category: Facilities Management
- Salary: competitive salary and benefits package commensurate with qualifications and experience
- Closing Date: 2026-09-24
Key Responsibilities
- Contribute to the development of the University and departmental strategies, policies, plans and procedures, and lead implementation at a unit level;
- Develop and implement Estate Management plans in line with the departmental strategy;
- Manage the unit’s operational performance against established goals and objectives identifying areas for improvement and recommending corrective action as needed;
- Ensure the maintenance, repair, and renovation of the University-owned buildings, grounds, and infrastructure to ensure a safe and functional environment for students, staff and visitors;
- Develop and implement effective preventive maintenance programs to minimize downtime and extend the lifespan of assets;
- Manage contracts and relationships with external vendors, contractors, and service providers;
- Collaborate with academic and administrative departments to understand their space requirements and develop efficient space allocation plans;
- Monitor space utilization and make recommendations for optimizing space usage;
- Coordinate relocation and renovation projects, ensuring minimal disruption to University operations;
- Collaborate with Manager, Infrastructure and Services for the establishment of service level agreements (SLAs) and monitor performance to ensure compliance and customer satisfaction;
- Develop and implement sustainable practices and initiatives to reduce the environmental impact of university facilities;
- Monitor energy usage and identify opportunities for energy conservation and efficiency improvements;
- Stay updated on green building practices and technologies and integrate them into the estates management strategy;
- Establish and maintain partnerships with relevant internal and external stakeholders to enable effective delivery of the departmental mandate, as necessary;
- Identify and address areas of improvement for customer and stakeholder experience;
- Support unit level professional development activities, including mentoring, training, and opportunities for advancement;
- Develop and manage estate management risk register with clear mitigation strategies;
- Ensure unit compliance to legislative and statutory requirements;
- Undertake any other duties as directed by the supervisor in line with the role.
Requirements
- A minimum of a Master’s degree in Facilities Management, Estates Management, Architecture, Engineering, Land Management, Properties Management, Urban and Regional Planning or a related field;
- A Master’s degree or postgraduate qualification in Facilities Management, Real Estate or Business Administration or other relevant areas will be added advantages ;
- Registration or eligibility for registration with Real Estate Advisory Council (REAC), Engineers Registration Board (ERB), Botswana Institute of Architects or a recognised professional body (e.g., RICS) is required.
- Certification in facilities management or a related field is desirable.
- A minimum of six (6) years’ experience, three (3) of which should have been at senior officer level of relevant experience in building maintenance, facilities management, or infrastructure management. Higher Education experience is preferred;
- Experience in managing outsourced service providers and service-level agreements, ease administration, space management, property transactions and valuations.
- Proficiency in property or estates management information systems;
- Strong knowledge of building systems, maintenance practices, and regulatory requirements;
- Excellent project management skills, with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects simultaneously;
- Knowledge of sustainability practices and green building certifications;
- Knowledge of sustainability practices and green building certifications;
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders;
- Analytical mindset and ability to make data-driven decisions;
- Proficiency in relevant computer software and systems.
Salary
competitive salary and benefits package commensurate with qualifications and experience
How to Apply
To apply, please visit: ub.bw
REF Code: IRC 3526 | Vacancy Circular No: IRC 3526
About the Company
The University of Botswana (UB) was established in 1982, as the first institution of higher education in Botswana. The university currently has three campuses: one in the capital city Gaborone, one in Francistown, and another in Maun. The University of Botswana is divided into six faculties: Business, Education, Engineering, Humanities, Health Sciences, Science and Social Sciences and the Sir Ketumile Masire Teaching Hospital. UB is ranked 1201–1500 in the world and 21st in sub-Saharan Africa in the 2024 Times Higher Education World University Ranking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and experience are typically required for an estates management manager role at a large institution in Botswana?
Most employers in Botswana look for a degree in facilities management, property management, civil engineering, or a related field, paired with at least 5–8 years of progressive experience in estates or facilities management. Professional certification such as from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) or an equivalent local body is a strong advantage. Leadership experience overseeing maintenance teams and managing budgets is usually essential.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities of a Manager: Estates Management in a university setting?
You would oversee the maintenance, repair, and upgrading of buildings, grounds, and utilities to ensure a safe and functional campus environment. This includes managing service contracts, supervising technical staff, ensuring compliance with local building and safety regulations, and contributing to space planning and infrastructure projects. You'll also prepare reports and budgets for senior management on estate condition and expenditure.
How is the local work culture and expectations for managers at institutions like the University of Botswana?
The work culture in Botswana's public institutions is formal and hierarchical, with respect for procedures, reporting lines, and stakeholder consultation. Managers are expected to be proactive, transparent, and culturally sensitive, often working with diverse teams and external contractors. There is strong emphasis on punctuality, accountability, and adherence to government/public sector procurement rules.
What realistic career progression paths exist for an estates management professional in Botswana?
From this manager role, professionals can progress to senior management positions such as Director of Estates or Facilities, or move into broader operational leadership within large public or private organisations in Botswana. With applicable certifications, opportunities also exist in property development, real estate consultancy, and project management across Southern Africa. Growth depends on performance, continuous professional development, and mobility between institutions.
What are typical benefits offered to managers in Botswana's higher education or public sectors?
Common benefits include medical aid membership, a pension or retirement fund, leave days (annual, sick, and compassionate) as per Botswana labour law, and often a housing allowance or staff accommodation support. Some institutions also provide professional development allowances and relocation assistance for recruited candidates. Exact packages vary by employer and are usually outlined in the employment contract.
How should one apply, and what qualities do employers like the University of Botswana look for in candidates?
Applications are typically submitted through the institution's official recruitment portal or via a detailed application letter and CV sent to human resources, with certified copies of certificates and references. Employers in Botswana look for proven experience in managing large estates, strong financial and project management skills, plus good communication and teamwork abilities. Showing familiarity with local regulations like the Botswana Building Control Act and public procurement is a plus.
