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- Tasks: Lead and enhance operational functions to support high-quality education across our academies.
- Company: Join a values-driven multi-academy trust focused on inclusive education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, hybrid working, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and young people in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in managing complex operations within educational settings.
- Other info: Flexible working options and a commitment to equality and diversity.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Our thriving and values-driven multi-academy trust is seeking to appoint an experienced Chief Operating Officer (COO) to help realise our vision of delivering high-quality, inclusive education rooted in Christian values. Derby Diocesan Academy Trust (DDAT) was established in 2014 for schools choosing to become an academy as well as for those who found themselves in need of a sponsor. Our vision is to build a better future for all across our academies who, in turn, will positively impact their communities. We want our children and young people to be able to ‘experience life in all its fullness’ and although this phrase is rooted in a Christian narrative (taken from John 10:10), irrespective of a faith perspective, that is what all of us want for our pupils.
This is an exciting opportunity for a skilled and strategic leader to shape and strengthen our Central Services Team, playing a key role in delivering our ambitious plans for sustainable growth. Excellence across all operational functions will be vital in supporting our current family of schools, while also developing the systems, structures, and capacity needed for the future.
Working closely with the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Finance Officer, you will contribute to the strategic leadership and operational effectiveness of the Trust, deputising where required. You will lead all non-academic and central service functions alongside the CFO who oversees finance, ensuring they reflect and reinforce our vision, values, and distinctively Christian ethos.
We are looking for a highly experienced leader with a proven track record of delivering organisational improvement and managing complex operations within a comparable setting. You will bring strong strategic insight, a collaborative approach, and a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities across central support services. Above all, you will be committed to making a meaningful difference to the lives of children and young people.
Employee benefits:
- An opportunity to work as part of a supportive team and empower you to further develop the Trust.
- A competitive salary and Local Government Pension Scheme contributions.
- Opportunity for Salary Sacrifice Shared Cost Additional Voluntary Contributions (AVCs).
- A generous annual leave entitlement.
- Ongoing high quality professional development opportunities.
- Hybrid working with the opportunity to work from the office in Bakewell, home and the DDAT schools across the Trust.
- Benefits including but not limited to; Free onsite parking at Bakewell Head Office, Cycle to Work Scheme, free eye tests and a contribution towards a pair of glasses for employees using VDU’s, Employee Assistance Programme & an opportunity to work flexibly.
To find out more and register your interest for the role, please visit www.joinddat.co.uk. If you have any questions or queries about the role, please do not hesitate to get in touch by contacting Jenna Everett on 01744 634654 or email jenna@satiseducation.co.uk.
The closing date for applications is: Monday 27th April 2026, 9am. Shortlisting: Tuesday 28th April 2026. Interviews will take place on: 7th & 8th May 2026.
To apply, please complete our online application form using the following link: https://derbydiocesanacademytrust.face-ed.co.uk/Vacancies/Detail?campaignRef=SCH-DDAT-0012. DDAT welcomes a diverse population of both children and staff and is committed to promoting and developing equality of opportunity in all its functions.
Chief Operating Officer employer: East Midlands Councils/East Midlands Jobs
Contact Detail:
East Midlands Councils/East Midlands Jobs 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 DDAT. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info that could really help your application stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Research the Trust's values and mission. Make sure you understand their Christian ethos and how it shapes their operations. This will not only help you tailor your approach but also show them you're genuinely interested in their vision.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by thinking about how your past experiences align with the role of COO. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've driven organisational improvement and managed complex operations in similar settings.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re following their instructions, which is always a good start!
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Operating Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for education and the values of DDAT shine through. We want to see how your personal beliefs align with our mission to deliver high-quality, inclusive education.
Be Specific About Your Experience: Highlight your previous roles and achievements that relate directly to the COO position. We’re looking for concrete examples of how you’ve managed complex operations and delivered organisational improvement in similar settings.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements outlined in the job description. We appreciate when candidates take the time to connect their skills and experiences to our vision and values.
Apply Through Our Website: Remember, don’t apply through the Derbyshire County Council website! Use the link provided to submit your application directly on our site. This helps us streamline the process and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves.
How to prepare for a job interview at East Midlands Councils/East Midlands Jobs
✨Know the Trust's Vision Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you fully understand Derby Diocesan Academy Trust's vision and values. Familiarise yourself with their commitment to delivering high-quality, inclusive education rooted in Christian values. This will help you align your answers with their ethos and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Leadership Skills
As a COO, you'll need to highlight your experience in strategic leadership and operational effectiveness. Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully managed complex operations and delivered organisational improvement in previous roles. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Prepare for Collaborative Questions
Expect questions about collaboration, especially since you'll be working closely with the CEO and CFO. Think of instances where you've worked as part of a team to achieve a common goal. Be ready to discuss how you foster collaboration and build strong relationships across different departments.
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Education
Make it clear that you're passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of children and young people. Share your thoughts on the challenges and opportunities within central support services in education. This will show that you not only have the skills but also the heart for the role.