School Operations & Facilities Manager

GEMS WORLD ACADEMY - ABU DHABI; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

GEMS World Academy - Abu Dhabi is seeking a senior facilities and school operations leader to manage the building and grounds, ensure safety, security, and cleanliness, and drive administrative services across the school.

The role requires extensive experience in facilities, operations and budget oversight, with a focus on continuous improvement and regulatory compliance. You will coordinate external contracts, oversee staff, and maintain high service standards across all campus operations.

Qualifications

• Minimum a BA, or equivalent (advanced) diploma / Certificate of School Business Management / Facilities
• Management / NEBOSH or IOSH
• At least 5 years’ experience in a senior level position within a service oriented industry
• Job-Specific knowledge and skills as listed in the ad

Responsibilities

• Oversee development, maintenance, safety, security and cleanliness of the School building and grounds.
• Organise and deliver administration and support services across the School.
• Provide strategic guidance on business, financial and operational matters.
• Support CP in achieving key strategic objectives and improvement plans.
• Encourage environmental sustainability initiatives.
• Ensure security and efficient operation of the School site and buildings.
• Monitor external contracts for service quality and value for money.
• Plan and deliver the business strategy including policies and safeguarding.
• Manage relevant budgets and control costs.
• Ensure compliance with health & safety legislation and guidelines.
• Direct performance and hours of administration teams; ensure high service standards.
• Be contactable outside normal school hours per protocol.
• Manage facilities maintenance and preventative maintenance schedules.
• Oversee campus infrastructure (lighting, HVAC, water, energy, waste).
• Procurement of staff accommodation leases and negotiate leases.
• Coordinate third-party services for catering, transport, shop, bookings; support after-school activities.
• Supervise central services such as security, health & safety, cleaning, waste disposal.
• Ensure daily site checks for vandalism, maintenance needs, and cleanliness.

Skills

Fluent English

Attention to detail

Multi-tasking

Organization

Forward planning

Interpersonal skills

Commercial acumen

Proactive work ethic

Education

BA or equivalent advanced diploma

Certificate of School Business Management / Facilities

Job description

GEMS World Academy - Abu Dhabi is seeking a senior facilities and school operations leader to manage the building and grounds, ensure safety, security, and cleanliness, and drive administrative services across the school.

The role requires extensive experience in facilities, operations and budget oversight, with a focus on continuous improvement and regulatory compliance. You will coordinate external contracts, oversee staff, and maintain high service standards across all campus operations.