Founding School Operations Lead

Taaleem; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 391,000 - 558,000; Full time

Job summary

Harrow International School Abu Dhabi seeks an experienced School Operations Manager to lead campus operations, including procurement, facilities, H&S, ESG, events, and shared services. You will report to the Head of Business Operations and work closely with the Principal to drive compliance and efficiency.

The role requires proven leadership of cross-functional teams, strong vendor management, and a focus on safeguarding and regulatory readiness within a pioneering, founding-school context.

Qualifications

• Experience as a School Operations Manager or similar role in an educational setting.
• Ability to lead multiple operational disciplines and teams.

Responsibilities

• Oversee operational services at campus level, ensuring compliant, cost‑effective delivery.
• Provide leadership for Facilities Manager, Procurement assistant, IT assistant and Head nurse with KPIs and appraisals.
• Lead H&S programs, maintain documentation, chair HSE meetings, and coordinate post‑incident actions.
• Approve events and excursions per policy; liaise with transport and vendors.
• Monitor R&M budgets and maintenance; escalate site-level risks and oversee CCTV usage.
• Renew licenses, maintain inspection records, and onboard ECAs/ASAs and third-party vendors.
• Act as site ESG champion; drive sustainability and reduce utility usage.
• Contribute to campus planning and oversee CIP project delivery and approvals.
• Coordinate transport, catering, ASA, and uniform providers; manage shared services.
• Oversee IT procurement and onboarding; resolve escalated IT issues.

Skills

Staff management

Procurement oversight

Health & safety

Facilities management

ESG & sustainability

Vendor & contract management

Campus development

Shared services coordination

IT end-user support

Job description

Harrow International School Abu Dhabi seeks an experienced School Operations Manager to lead campus operations, including procurement, facilities, H&S, ESG, events, and shared services. You will report to the Head of Business Operations and work closely with the Principal to drive compliance and efficiency.

The role requires proven leadership of cross-functional teams, strong vendor management, and a focus on safeguarding and regulatory readiness within a pioneering, founding-school context.