Chief Operating Officer, FEA

Guardian Jobs; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Guardian Jobs is seeking a Chief Operating Officer for a Cambridge-based college client. The role reports to the Principal & Chief Executive Officer and the Corporation, providing strategic leadership across Finance, Human Resources, Health & Safety, Funding and Property Services.

The postholder will help shape the College’s strategic direction, strengthen financial resilience and operational effectiveness and lead on governance, commercial strategy, sustainability and major capital

Qualifications

• Professional body membership (ICAEW/ACCA/CIMA/CIPFA) required or preferred.
• Degree level or equivalent qualification required.

Responsibilities

• Provide professional leadership across Finance, Human Resources, Health & Safety, Funding and Property Services.
• Shape the College’s strategic direction and strengthen financial resilience.
• Lead on governance, commercial strategy, sustainability and major capital investment programmes.

Education

Professional body membership (ICAEW/ACCA/CIMA/CIPFA)

Job description

Our client is committed to delivering an excellent, inclusive and safe experience for all learners. With a clear ‘learner first’ culture, their strategic direction focuses on continuous improvement, inclusion throughout the student journey and positive outcomes for every student. They are proud of their open, collaborative culture where visible and approachable leaders inspire trust and teamwork.

Our client is seeking a Chief Operating Officer to act as a trusted strategic advisor to the Principal & Chief Executive Officer and the Corporation, providing professional leadership across Finance, Human Resources, Health & Safety, Funding and Property Services. The postholder will help shape the College’s strategic direction, strengthen financial resilience and operational effectiveness and lead on governance, commercial strategy, sustainability and major capital investment programmes. The role requires membership of a relevant professional body such as ICAEW, ACCA, CIMA or CIPFA and a qualification to degree level or equivalent.

Closing date: Monday 5 October 2026

Interview date: Wednesday 21 October 2026