Chief Operating Officer in Belfast

Chief Operating Officer in Belfast

Belfast Full-Time 72000 - 108000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead and optimise Campbell College's operations, driving strategic development and commercial initiatives.
  • Company: Prestigious boys' school with a rich heritage and vibrant community.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, professional growth, and the chance to shape future leaders.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in education while working in a beautiful 100-acre estate.
  • Qualifications: Proven senior leadership experience and strong strategic planning skills.
  • Other info: Collaborative environment focused on safeguarding and promoting diversity.

The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.

Campbell College is a leading HMC day and boarding school for boys aged 3–18, located on a stunning 100-acre wooded estate in Belfast. Founded in 1894, Campbell is a school with a proud heritage and a clear sense of purpose, offering an outstanding all-round education within a values-rich and caring community. Home to over 1,200 pupils, including nearly 150 boarders from across the world, Campbell achieves strong academic outcomes, provides exceptional sporting and creative opportunities, and has a vibrant Sixth Form.

The Headmaster and Governors are seeking to appoint an inspiring, collegiate and ambitious Chief Operating Officer (COO) to join Campbell’s Senior Leadership Team. This is an exciting opportunity for a commercially astute, strategic and engaging professional who will lead the College’s business and support functions while playing a central part in shaping and delivering the next stage of its strategic development.

Reporting to the new Headmaster and working closely with the Board of Governors, the COO will have overall responsibility for key operational areas including finance, estates and facilities, HR, compliance, catering, IT, and commercial activities. The COO will also act as the College’s commercial adviser, driving initiatives to optimise revenue and deliver ambitious capital projects.

Candidates will have a proven track record of senior leadership, commercial success and financial control, coupled with strong business and strategic planning skills and the ability to inspire, lead and develop high-functioning teams. Experience in an education setting is not essential, but candidates must demonstrate empathy with and commitment to single-sex boys’ independent education and the values and ethos of the College. A collaborative style and the ability to engage effectively with all members of the Campbell community are essential.

Interested candidates are invited to contact RSAcademics to arrange an informal and confidential discussion about the role:

  • Nina Lambert, Head of Professional Services Appointments: ninalambert@rsacademics.com

For more information about the role and details of how to apply, please visit: www.rsacademics.com

Closing date: 10.00am on Monday 9th February 2026

Campbell College 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 & Barring Service.

This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020. The safeguarding responsibilities of this post are detailed in the candidate information brochure.

RSAcademics is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and to promoting diversity and inclusion in schools.

Chief Operating Officer in Belfast employer: Campbell College

Campbell College is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead within a prestigious educational institution set in a beautiful 100-acre estate in Belfast. With a strong commitment to fostering a values-rich community, the College provides a supportive work culture that encourages professional growth and collaboration among its staff. As part of the Senior Leadership Team, the Chief Operating Officer will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the College while enjoying the benefits of working in a dynamic environment dedicated to excellence in education.
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Contact Detail:

Campbell College Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Chief Operating Officer in Belfast

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector and let them know you're on the lookout for a COO role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities at places like Campbell College.

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for those interviews by researching the school’s values and ethos. Show us that you understand what makes Campbell College special and how you can contribute to its mission. Tailor your responses to reflect their commitment to boys' independent education.

✨Tip Number 3

Don’t just wait for job postings! Be proactive and reach out directly to the Headmaster or Board of Governors. A well-crafted email expressing your interest can set you apart from the crowd and show your enthusiasm for the role.

✨Tip Number 4

Finally, apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage with us directly.

We think you need these skills to ace Chief Operating Officer in Belfast

Senior Leadership
Commercial Acumen
Strategic Planning
Financial Control
Team Development
Operational Management
Compliance Knowledge
Stakeholder Engagement
Project Management
Empathy in Education
Collaborative Leadership
Revenue Optimisation
Capital Project Delivery

Some tips for your application 🫡

Know Your Audience: Before you start writing, take a moment to understand Campbell College's values and ethos. Tailor your application to reflect how your experience aligns with their mission and the unique environment they offer.

Be Clear and Concise: When detailing your experience, keep it straightforward. Use bullet points where possible to highlight your achievements and skills. Remember, clarity is key in making a strong impression!

Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for the role shine through! Share why you're excited about the opportunity to contribute to Campbell College and how your vision aligns with their strategic goals.

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application via our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s super easy to navigate!

How to prepare for a job interview at Campbell College

✨Know the College Inside Out

Before your interview, take the time to research Campbell College thoroughly. Understand its values, history, and current initiatives. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you align your answers with the school's ethos.

✨Showcase Your Leadership Style

As a COO, your leadership style is crucial. Be prepared to discuss your approach to leading teams and driving strategic initiatives. Use specific examples from your past experiences to illustrate how you've inspired and developed high-functioning teams.

✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions

Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and strategic thinking. Think of scenarios related to finance, HR, or operational challenges in an educational setting. Prepare structured responses that highlight your analytical skills and decision-making process.

✨Engage with the Community Focus

Demonstrate your commitment to the values of single-sex boys’ independent education. Be ready to discuss how you would engage with various stakeholders within the Campbell community, including staff, students, and parents, to foster a collaborative environment.

Chief Operating Officer in Belfast
Campbell College
Location: Belfast

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