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- Tasks: Lead strategic initiatives and oversee operations for Edinburgh College's success.
- Company: Join one of Scotland’s largest colleges, shaping futures for 30,000 students.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Be a key player in transforming education and enhancing student experiences.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in corporate functions and strong financial expertise required.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for growth and innovation.
The predicted salary is between 100800 - 139200 £ per year.
Edinburgh College is one of Scotland’s largest colleges, offering over 700 courses to 30,000 students across four campuses. With expert teaching, strong industry partnerships, and flexible pathways from access to degree level, we ensure our students are equipped and have opportunities to succeed — with 98% progressing to work or further study within eight months.
As Chief Operating Officer (Depute), you will be a key member of Edinburgh College’s Executive Team, providing strategic leadership across operational excellence, corporate services and organisational performance. You will oversee finance, HR and workforce planning, digital innovation and IT, estates and infrastructure, governance, risk, compliance and business continuity to ensure the College is sustainable, resilient and future-focused. Acting as Depute to the Principal & CEO, you will hold delegated authority for staffing, finance, governance reporting and emergency decision-making as required. You will lead major transformation programmes including digital and estates development, service improvement, financial sustainability and people strategy. Working closely with the Board of Management and senior leaders, you will provide clear, robust governance, performance reporting and strategic insight, while fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, continuous improvement and excellence in student experience.
You are an inspiring, strategic leader with proven experience leading multi-disciplinary corporate functions in a complex organisation. You bring strong financial and operational expertise, including managing significant budgets, driving organisational change and delivering large-scale transformation. You have a solid understanding of finance, HR, estates, digital and IT, governance and risk, and are confident working with Boards and senior stakeholders. You are an exceptional communicator and relationship-builder, able to articulate vision, influence at all levels and make sound decisions in complex or high-pressure environments. With a degree or relevant professional qualification (and ideally an accounting or leadership qualification), you demonstrate a commitment to continuous professional development, equality and inclusion, and creating high-performing, values-driven cultures.
For a confidential discussion, please contact Donogh O’Brien, Katharine Price or Gillian Blackadder at Aspen People on 0141 212 7555.
Closing date for applications: 11:59 Monday 2nd March 2026
Initial (virtual) Interviews Monday 16th March
Final (in person) interviews: Wednesday 1st April 2026
Chief Operating Officer employer: Aspen People
Contact Detail:
Aspen People Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Operating Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who might know someone at Edinburgh College. A friendly chat can open doors that applications alone can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the college's recent initiatives and challenges. Show us you’re not just a candidate but someone who’s genuinely interested in making a difference at Edinburgh College.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your vision for operational excellence and how you can lead transformation programmes. We want to hear how you’ll make an impact right from the get-go.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Edinburgh College.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Operating Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in operational excellence and strategic leadership. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Chief Operating Officer at Edinburgh College.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; we want to hear about your successes! Use specific examples that demonstrate your financial and operational expertise, especially in managing budgets and driving organisational change.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your points are easy to understand and directly related to the job description. Avoid jargon unless it’s relevant!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Edinburgh College!
How to prepare for a job interview at Aspen People
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you thoroughly understand Edinburgh College's mission, values, and the specific challenges it faces. Research recent developments in the education sector, especially those affecting colleges in Scotland. This will help you demonstrate your strategic insight during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your leadership approach and how it aligns with fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation. Think of examples where you've successfully led transformation programmes or managed multi-disciplinary teams, as this will resonate well with the panel.
✨Be Ready for Financial Discussions
Since the role involves significant budget management, brush up on your financial acumen. Be prepared to discuss your experience with financial sustainability and how you've driven organisational change through effective financial strategies.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Highlight your experience in working with Boards and senior stakeholders. Prepare to share examples of how you've built relationships and influenced decision-making in high-pressure environments, as this is crucial for the Chief Operating Officer role.
