Chief Operating Officer (COO) – School Group Operations

International Community Schools; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 334,800 - 502,200; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Professional and collaborative work environment

Opportunities for career growth

Job summary

International Community Schools seeks a Chief Operating Officer (COO) to lead and enhance the operational excellence of all branches in Abu Dhabi. The COO will oversee day-to-day operations, working closely with the CEO and senior leadership to implement strategic initiatives and ensure high standards across the organization.

Candidates should hold a Master's degree with 10-15 years of experience in senior leadership, preferably in the education sector. Benefits include a competitive salary and opportunities for career growth in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10-15 years of senior leadership or operational management experience.
• Experience within the education sector or multi-site organisations preferred.
• Strong analytical and strategic planning skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead overall operations of all school branches within the group.
• Ensure operational efficiency and compliance across functions.
• Manage budgets, resource allocation, and operational planning.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Strategic planning

Problem-solving

Team management

Education

Master's degree in Business Administration or related field

Tools

ERP systems

Job description

About Us

International Community Schools (ICS) is a leading educational group with multiple branches delivering high-quality international education. We are seeking an experienced visionary and results‑driven Chief Operating Officer (COO) to oversee and enhance the operational excellence of our schools. The COO will play a key leadership role in ensuring smooth day‑to‑day operations across all branches while supporting the strategic growth and long‑term success of the organization.

International Community Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to satisfactory references and the receipt of police clearance. We strongly encourage UAE Nationals to apply.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee the overall operations of all school branches within the group
• Ensure operational efficiency compliance and consistency across academic and administrative functions
• Work closely with the CEO and senior leadership team to implement strategic initiatives and organizational goals
• Monitor and improve operational processes, policies and systems
• Supervise and coordinate departments including Administration, HR, IT, Procurement, Facilities, Transportation and School Operations
• Ensure compliance with ADEK regulations, policies and educational standards
• Develop and implement performance metrics and operational KPIs
• Support school leaders in achieving operational and organizational excellence
• Manage budgets, resource allocation and operational planning
• Lead large‑scale projects such as school expansions, technology initiatives and process improvements
• Drive innovation, digital transformation and operational modernization across the group
• Strengthen communication and collaboration between branches and headquarters
• Ensure high standards of health, safety, security and risk management across all campuses

Additional Key Responsibilities

• Provide leadership direction and operational oversight to the HR, Procurement, Admissions, IT, Media and Marketing departments across the group
• Develop and implement strategic plans, departmental goals and operational initiatives in collaboration with senior management to support organizational growth and excellence
• Identify opportunities for process optimization, standardization and automation across operational departments, implementing effective strategies to streamline workflows, improve productivity and enhance overall performance
• Foster strong cross‑departmental collaboration and communication to ensure seamless operations, efficient information sharing and effective problem‑solving while promoting a positive work culture and maintaining strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders
• Allocate and manage resources including budgets, personnel and technology to support the operational needs of each department, ensuring optimal utilisation and adherence to financial guidelines

Requirements

• Master's degree in Business Administration, Educational Leadership, Management or a related field
• Minimum 10‑15 years of senior leadership or operational management experience
• Experience within the education sector or multi‑site organisations is highly preferred
• Strong understanding of school operations compliance and organisational management
• Excellent leadership, communication and decision‑making skills
• Proven ability to manage large teams and multiple branches
• Strong analytical, strategic planning and problem‑solving abilities
• Experience in ERP systems, digital transformation and operational optimisation is an advantage
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced and dynamic environment

Preferred Qualities

• Visionary and strategic mindset
• Strong people management and leadership skills
• High level of professionalism and integrity
• Ability to lead organisational change and continuous improvement
• Strong stakeholder management and communication abilities

Benefits

• Competitive salary package
• Professional and collaborative work environment
• Opportunity to lead operations for a growing educational group
• Career growth and leadership opportunities
• Dynamic and innovative educational environment