Manager School Operations

Job Description

Leadership & Strategy

• Provide strategic guidance to the Principal/CEO and Senior Leadership on operational, financial, and business matters.
• Contribute to the development and delivery of the school’s improvement plan and long-term sustainability goals.
• Lead initiatives for environmental sustainability and operational efficiency across the school site.
• Ensure robust performance management systems are in place for all support teams.

Administration & Support Services

• Organize and manage all administration and support services, ensuring effective deployment of staff and resources.
• Support recruitment, training, and continuous professional development of administration and support staff.
• Ensure a culture of service excellence, accountability, and professionalism across all teams.

Finance & Business Operations

• Manage budgets, monitor expenditure, and ensure value for money across all operational areas.
• Prepare monthly financial reports, variance analysis, and forecasts in collaboration with the Accounts team.
• Ensure compliance with Delegation of Authority and audit requirements.
• Oversee third-party service providers, ensuring KPIs, contracts, and service standards are consistently met.

Facilities & Health & Safety

• Oversee the maintenance, security, and efficient operation of the school site, buildings, and grounds.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and safeguarding regulations, in line with GEMS Corporate policies and local legislation.
• Manage preventative and reactive maintenance schedules, either in-house or via external contractors.
• Supervise facilities services including cleaning, waste management, energy usage, catering, transportation, and accommodation.
• Promote safe parking, secure site access, and effective use of CCTV and security systems.

Community & Commercial Engagement

• Promote school facilities as a venue for events, conferences, and community activities.
• Ensure smooth operation of ancillary services such as catering, school shop, and after-school activities.
• Strengthen relationships with parents, staff, and the wider community by ensuring high-quality services and a welcoming school environment.

Skills

• Strong leadership, organizational, and people management skills.
• Proven experience in operations, facilities, or business management, preferably in an educational setting.
• Financial acumen with experience managing budgets and contracts.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to handle pressure, prioritize tasks, and resolve issues proactively.
• Commitment to health, safety, safeguarding, and sustainability standards.
• GEMS Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all of its students and staff.
• A UK-enhanced DBS or equivalent police check is a pre-requisite for all appointments.