Strategic COO - Multi-Site Education Trust Operations

The Methodist Church in Britain; Leatherhead; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

The Howard Partnership Trust is seeking a Chief Operating Officer to lead finance, estates, HR services, IT, compliance, risk and governance across a multi-academy environment. You will report to the CEO and work with the Trust Board to drive operational excellence and long-term sustainability.

In this role you will shape workforce planning, digital infrastructure, risk management and change programmes while ensuring decisions are grounded in school experience and values-driven leadership.

Qualifications

• Significant senior leadership experience in a complex, multi-site environment.
• Experience overseeing several operational disciplines.
• Strength in at least two of finance, estates, HR services, IT, compliance, risk or organisational development.
• Experience leading specialists and building high-performing teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead and integrate finance, estates, HR services, IT, compliance, risk, governance operations and wider business services
• Strengthen financial resilience, value for money and long-term sustainability
• Oversee estates strategy and compliance, including major capital projects
• Lead workforce planning, HR transformation and culture development
• Ensure digital infrastructure is modern, secure and aligned with teaching, learning and operational priorities
• Ensure systems, processes and infrastructure are robust, efficient and future-proof
• Play a key role in organisational planning, risk management and change leadership
• Work with Principals, Headteachers and senior leaders so operational decisions are evidence-based and grounded in school experience
• Work closely with the CEO, Executive Team and Trust Board

Skills

Systems thinking

Strategic clarity

Risk management

Regulatory compliance

Job description

The Howard Partnership Trust is seeking a Chief Operating Officer to lead finance, estates, HR services, IT, compliance, risk and governance across a multi-academy environment. You will report to the CEO and work with the Trust Board to drive operational excellence and long-term sustainability.

In this role you will shape workforce planning, digital infrastructure, risk management and change programmes while ensuring decisions are grounded in school experience and values-driven leadership.