Head of Operations UK

Job Title: Head of Operations, UK

Location: Oxford

Reports to: Regional Projects Director, Europe

Consults with: School Principals, School Finance Directors, Regional Finance/Managing Director, Global Real Estate Manager

Hours: Full-time

Job Summary:

Nord Anglia Education is seeking a dynamic and experienced Head of Operations to oversee the operational aspects of four schools within our UK organisation as well as supporting our Regional Projects Director with Health and Safety. This will ensure the smooth and efficient running of all school facilities, resources, and administrative functions across multiple teaching and boarding sites. This role is crucial in supporting the educational mission of the  organisation by providing safe, welcoming, and well-maintained environments for students, staff, and visitors.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Operational Management:

• Oversee day-to-day operations of all schools within the UK, including facilities management, health and safety, and administrative functions.
• Develop and implement operational policies and procedures to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and best practices across all schools, in particular compliance with UKVI.
• Manage and monitor the schools’ budgets in collaboration with the finance team.

2. Facilities Management:

• Ensure all school premises are well-maintained, safe, and fit for purpose.
• Together with Site Managers, oversee maintenance, cleaning, security, and catering services across multiple sites.
• Coordinate construction or renovation projects, liaising with contractors and ensuring minimal disruption to school activities.

3. Health and Safety:

• Develop, implement, and review health and safety policies and procedures for all schools.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety legislation and conduct regular risk assessments at each site.
• Organise regular training for staff on health and safety matters.

4. Leadership:

• Oversee the line management of Operations staff across all schools, providing guidance and support to ensure high standards of work.
• Oversee management of the UKVI compliance administration team.

5. Resource Management:

• Oversee procurement and management of resources, including utilities, equipment, supplies, and materials for all schools.
• Oversee the management of supplier relationships to ensure best value for money.
• Working with the school Finance Manager’s to develop and manage the school’s operations budget (including maintenance) They will be assisted on this by the schools Site Manager.

6. Leases and Contract Management:

• Oversee the management of leases and contracts for all school properties and services.
• Negotiate and manage leases, ensuring compliance with terms and conditions.
• Manage contracts with external service providers, ensuring service level agreements are met and value for money is achieved.
• Oversee any sub-letting arrangements linked to summer school operations.

7. Strategic Planning:

• Work with the senior leadership team to develop and implement the organisation’s strategic plan.
• Identify and implement opportunities for operational improvements and efficiencies across all schools.

8. Compliance and Reporting:

• Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation, including data protection and safeguarding requirements.
• Prepare and present reports to the senior leadership team and governing body as required.
• Lead the compliance for UKVI work.

9. Project Management

• Develop project plans, including scope, timelines, budgets, and resource allocation.
• Coordinate and collaborate with stakeholders to ensure project success.
• Monitor project progress, manage risks, and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Conduct post-project evaluations to assess outcomes and identify areas for improvement.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Facilities Management, or a related field (desirable but not essential)
• Ideally a Chartered Surveyor.
• Project Management experience essential
• Proven experience in an operational leadership role, preferably within an educational setting and across multiple sites.
• Strong understanding of health and safety regulations and facilities management.
• Excellent organisational, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to lead and motivate teams across different locations, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
• Strong financial acumen and experience in budget management.
• Proficiency in using IT and management software.
• Experience in lease and contract management, including negotiation and compliance.

Personal Attributes:

• A proactive and results-oriented approach.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities across various sites.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build effective relationships with staff, students, parents, and external partners.
• Commitment to the values and ethos of Nord Anglia Education.

Nord Anglia Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment. An enhanced DBS check will be required for the successful candidate.

Note: This job description is intended to provide a general overview of the role and is not an exhaustive list of duties. The responsibilities may be subject to change based on the needs of the organisation.