Director of Operations

Salary: Leadership Scale L15-L17 (£75,545 to £78,896) – subject to negotiation

Responsible to: Headteacher and Senior Deputy

Contract: Full-time, permanent

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Director of Operations to join our Senior Leadership Team (SLT). This is an exciting opportunity to play a crucial role in the strategic and operational management of Drayton Manor High School, ensuring the efficient and effective use of resources to support the school's aims and objectives.

Job Purpose:

As the Director of Operations, you will lead and manage the school’s HR and Payroll, Administration, Premises, IT, Catering, and Cleaning services. You will provide professional leadership to support staff, ensuring compliance with national and local guidelines while fostering a strong business ethos. This role also involves advising the Headteacher, SLT, and trust board on key operational matters and ensuring that the school remains compliant with legislation and regulations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Leadership: Develop and manage systems for personnel, business, and premises, supporting the SLT and the school’s strategic goals.
• Operational Management: Oversee HR functions, including recruitment, payroll, pensions, and staff development. Ensure compliance with employment law and safeguarding regulations.
• Administrative Oversight: Lead the administrative team to ensure efficient systems, compliance with Data Protection, and effective management of all manual and computerised records.
• Estate Management: In partnership with the Facilities Manager, manage the school’s site, buildings, health and safety measures, and insurances, while developing contingency plans for emergencies.
• IT Systems: Oversee the IT team to ensure the security and effectiveness of the school’s systems, with a focus on cyber security and value for money.
• Public Relations: Support the Headteacher in promoting the school’s ethos and objectives, and manage external relations and public events.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Proven experience in business or operations management, ideally in an educational setting.
• Strong leadership and people management skills, with the ability to lead a multidisciplinary team.
• A thorough understanding of HR processes, employment law, and safeguarding.
• Excellent knowledge of estates management, health and safety compliance, and IT systems.
• Strong financial acumen with experience in managing budgets and resources effectively.

Why Join Us?

At Drayton Manor High School, you will be part of a committed leadership team focused on delivering exceptional education. This role offers the opportunity to make a real impact on the school’s strategic direction and operational success.