Operational Lead

JR United Kingdom; London; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking an Operational Lead to drive the strategic development and management of its operational framework. This pivotal role involves leading high-performing teams, developing efficient processes, and fostering partnerships to ensure the delivery of accredited qualifications through a robust digital platform. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in operations and team management, with a commitment to continuous improvement and stakeholder engagement. Join a forward-thinking organization that values innovation and collaboration, and contribute to shaping the future of education.

Benefits

5.6 weeks annual leave

Company sick policy

Statutory sick pay

Maternity/Paternity pay

Training and development opportunities

Grocery discounts

Cycle-to-work scheme

Investing and savings opportunities

Qualifications

• Degree or equivalent in Business or Education Management.
• Experience in senior operations or administrative leadership.

Responsibilities

• Lead operational strategies to meet organizational goals.
• Manage multidisciplinary teams and oversee performance reviews.

Skills

Strategic Planning

Team Management

Stakeholder Engagement

Budget Management

Digital Service Delivery

Communication Skills

Project Management

Education

Degree in Business Administration or Education Management

Postgraduate Qualification in Leadership or Digital Learning

Job description

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Location: On-site (Canary Wharf, London)

Job Type: Full-time, Permanent

Reports To: Director of E-Learning

Role Purpose

The Operational Lead is responsible for the strategic development, implementation, and management of the operational framework of EducateU (PEN group). The postholder will ensure effective operational delivery by leading high-performing teams, developing processes, and fostering stakeholder partnerships to support the delivery of accredited qualifications through a robust digital platform.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Lead the design and execution of operational strategies to support the organisation’s short- and long-term goals.
• Establish policies, procedures, and quality assurance mechanisms to ensure efficient and compliant service delivery.
• Contribute to organisational planning, risk management, and governance.

Team Management & Development

• Recruit, train, and manage multidisciplinary teams, embedding a culture of performance, learning, and continuous improvement.
• Oversee staff performance reviews and development planning in line with organisational objectives.

Partnerships & Accreditation

• Forge strategic partnerships with chartered and professional bodies to secure programme accreditation and ensure ongoing compliance.
• Represent EducateU (PEN group) in external audits and accreditation engagements, maintaining trust and transparency with accrediting partners.

Digital Systems & User Experience

• Collaborate with web development and IT teams to deliver a seamless, user-friendly digital experience.
• Oversee backend infrastructure, data integrity, and platform performance to meet academic and administrative requirements.
• Manage departmental budgets, ensuring responsible allocation of resources and achieving value-for-money across operational activities.
• Monitor financial performance and provide regular reporting to the Director of E-Learning.

Operational Compliance

• Implement systems to monitor, evaluate, and report on operational performance against internal and external benchmarks.
• Ensure adherence to all relevant legislative, regulatory, and quality frameworks.

Qualifications

• Degree or equivalent qualification in a relevant field (e.g., Business Administration, Education Management).
• Postgraduate qualification in a relevant field e.g. Leadership, Business, Education, Digital Learning or equivalent experience.
• Experience in a senior operations or administrative leadership role.
• Experience leading teams and supporting professional development.
• Experience in stakeholder engagement and managing accreditation relationships.
• Track record of building operational systems from the ground up.
• Strong understanding of digital service delivery and platform management.
• Proficiency in budget management and financial oversight.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Strategic planning and project management experience.
• Commitment to equality, sustainability, and continuous improvement.
• Experience in the Higher Education or EdTech sectors is desirable.

Additional benefits include 5.6 weeks of annual leave plus bank holidays, company sick policy, statutory sick pay, maternity/paternity pays, training and development opportunities, grocery discounts, cycle-to-work scheme, and investing and savings opportunities.