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- Tasks: Lead non-educational functions like finance, IT, and facilities at a prestigious school.
- Company: Benenden School, a top independent school in Britain, offers a unique educational experience for girls.
- Benefits: Join a dynamic team with opportunities for professional growth and a commitment to innovation.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative period in education, shaping the future of a century-old institution.
- Qualifications: Professional qualifications in finance, estates, or project management are essential.
- Other info: Applications close on 3 February; safeguarding children is a priority.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
The Head and members of the Governing Council of Benenden School invite applications for the position of Chief Operating Officer (COO).
Founded in 1923, Benenden is one of the leading independent schools in Britain and is situated in 250 acres of beautiful parkland in Kent. Some 550 girls benefit from Benenden’s ‘A Complete Education’ (ACE), with the core values of confidence, compassion, courage, and courtesy at its heart.
A key aspect of school life at Benenden is its culture of ‘stretch without stress’ and its distinctive approach to boarding, which is central to the educational experience for every girl. Motivational teaching and a dynamic, challenging curriculum are fundamental to this experience, encouraging and supporting girls to develop their interests and excel beyond the classroom.
Benenden is fast approaching the completion of its Centenary Vision, an exciting development plan which has recently led the School to its 100th anniversary. The School has constantly sought to develop and improve its educational provision, adding an all-weather pitch, sports pavilion, additional on-site staff housing, state-of-the-art Science Centre, and an Eco-Classroom to the campus in recent years. The stunning new Hall and Music School are also valuable new additions to the site.
Reporting directly to the Head, the COO will assume overall responsibility for the leadership of all non-educational functions within the School, including finance, estates and facilities, people services, IT, and commercial enterprise activities. As a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, the COO will play a pivotal role in driving the successful execution of the Strategic Plan and realizing the School’s vision for the future.
This is a wide-ranging and exciting opportunity for a forward-thinking leader to provide commercial strategy, identify growth opportunities, and continue to drive a culture of professionalism during a transformative period for the independent schools sector. Applications are encouraged from candidates from a diverse range of professional backgrounds who can evidence strong commercial and operational expertise and a demonstrable track record of successfully leading multi-disciplinary teams through a collaborative and enabling style. The successful candidate is likely to have a professional qualification in finance, estates, or project management. Sound judgment, strong communication skills, and a deep understanding of the mission and values of Benenden School will be essential as the School embarks on its second century of leading and innovative education.
The closing date for applications is 9am GMT Monday 3 February.
Benenden School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
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Chief Operating Officer employer: Benenden School
Contact Detail:
Benenden School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Operating Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with Benenden School's core values: confidence, compassion, courage, and courtesy. Demonstrating a clear understanding of these values during your interactions can set you apart as a candidate who aligns with the school's mission.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your experience in leading multi-disciplinary teams. Be prepared to discuss specific examples where your collaborative leadership style has driven successful outcomes, especially in non-educational functions like finance or facilities management.
✨Tip Number 3
Research the recent developments at Benenden School, such as the new Hall and Music School. Being knowledgeable about these initiatives will show your genuine interest in the school and its future direction.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your vision for the role of COO in the context of the school's Centenary Vision. Articulating how you can contribute to this transformative period will demonstrate your forward-thinking approach and strategic mindset.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Operating Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the School's Values: Familiarize yourself with Benenden School's core values of confidence, compassion, courage, and courtesy. Reflect these values in your application to demonstrate alignment with the school's mission.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasize your commercial and operational expertise, particularly in leading multi-disciplinary teams. Provide specific examples of how you've successfully driven strategic initiatives in previous roles.
Showcase Leadership Skills: As the COO will be a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, illustrate your leadership style and how it fosters collaboration and professionalism. Mention any relevant qualifications in finance, estates, or project management.
Tailor Your Application: Customize your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific requirements of the COO position at Benenden School. Address how your background and skills can contribute to the school's Centenary Vision and future goals.
How to prepare for a job interview at Benenden School
✨Understand the School's Values
Familiarize yourself with Benenden School's core values: confidence, compassion, courage, and courtesy. Be prepared to discuss how these values resonate with your leadership style and how you can embody them in your role as COO.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Vision
As a candidate for COO, it's crucial to articulate your vision for the school's non-educational functions. Prepare examples of how you've successfully driven strategic initiatives in previous roles, particularly in finance, estates, or project management.
✨Demonstrate Collaborative Leadership
Highlight your experience in leading multi-disciplinary teams through a collaborative approach. Be ready to share specific instances where your enabling style has fostered teamwork and achieved positive outcomes.
✨Prepare for Questions on Child Welfare
Given the school's commitment to safeguarding, be prepared to discuss your understanding of child protection policies and your approach to ensuring a safe environment for students. This will demonstrate your alignment with the school's mission.
