Education Operations Lead: School Hub & Finance

LIFE Education Trust (UK); Romford; On-site; GBP 56,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

The Frances Bardsley Academy for Girls and The Bridge in Romford form part of LIFE Education Trust, recruiting an experienced Operations Manager to run day-to-day operations across both schools on one site. This is a permanent, full-time role (36 hours/week, 52 weeks/year) starting 1 January 2027 or earlier.

Salary is Grade 9, spine points 40–44 (£56,058 – £60,390) with a recruitment and retention allowance paid in addition.

Responsibilities

• Share our commitment to building great learning communities where children flourish
• Lead and develop the Hub’s operations team, including people, finance, administration, cover and site colleagues
• Prepare and manage budgets and forecasts, explain variances clearly to senior leaders, and lead Integrated Curriculum and Financial Planning (ICFP)
• Oversee HR processes, including contracts, payroll, safer recruitment and the Single Central Record
• Lead the strategic management of the school premises, health and safety compliance, lettings and the catering contract
• Manage contracts in line with procurement law and the Trust’s financial regulations, identifying opportunities to save costs
• Build strong links between LIFE Central and the Hub, coordinating Trust-wide IT and marketing initiatives
• Bring excellent organisation, sound judgement and a collaborative, values-led approach

Job description

The Frances Bardsley Academy for Girls and The Bridge in Romford form part of LIFE Education Trust, recruiting an experienced Operations Manager to run day-to-day operations across both schools on one site. This is a permanent, full-time role (36 hours/week, 52 weeks/year) starting 1 January 2027 or earlier.

Salary is Grade 9, spine points 40–44 (£56,058 – £60,390) with a recruitment and retention allowance paid in addition.