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- Tasks: Lead and manage a vibrant international language campus with a team of up to 40 staff.
- Company: Join EF Education First, a global leader in language education with over 600 schools worldwide.
- Benefits: Enjoy professional development, private medical insurance, and free access to language learning resources.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission-driven team that values innovation, growth, and cultural exchange.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in senior management, strong leadership skills, and a university degree required.
- Other info: Full-time role with some weekend work; must have the right to work in the UK.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
EF Oxford is searching for an entrepreneurial, self-motivated and people-focused leader, dedicated to driving operational excellence and growth of its international language campus. At EF Education First, we believe the world is better when people strive to understand one another. With 600+ schools and offices in 50 countries, we offer immersive programs in language, travel, cultural exchange, and academics, turning dreams into global opportunities. Join us in our shared mission of opening the world through education.
Your Role
You will be responsible for the overall running of our language campus and managing a team of up to 40 office, activity and teaching staff. The campus includes offsite residences throughout the year, increasing in the busy summer months. While you will take full ownership for running this operation, a central team of operations directors will support you. As we are working in a very fast-paced environment, we are looking for a self-starter who can apply their previous knowledge and experience to continue the successful growth and development of the school.
Requirements
- Minimum of 5 years’ experience as a senior manager running a team of no less than 20 staff
- Relentless focus on customer service and quality
- Ability to guide, develop, inspire and motivate teams
- Demonstrated success in building strong teams through thoughtful recruitment and HR practices
- Successful results in inspections or accreditations
- Ability to manage a budget and work within its parameters
- Operational experience (education sector desired, but not essential)
- Global or international work experience desired
- A model of quality & professionalism
- Commitment to the highest standards of welfare provision
- Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail
- Proven leadership experience in managing challenging situations and maintaining composure under pressure
- Excellent cross-cultural communication, people and conflict resolution skills
- Ability and desire to combine big picture and detailed oriented thinking to drive a successful business, improvement and growth
- Entrepreneurial spirit, comfort with a fast paced environment
- University graduate required; C2 level proficiency in spoken and written English, other languages are an advantage
- Right to work in the UK
- Clean DBS check and 2 references required
Responsibilities
- Ensures best practices are followed at all times complying with EF policy, British Council/ISI accreditation and UKVI criteria
- To be an inspirational, engaging, forward thinking and dynamic leader for the team
- To ensure that all staff are empowered in their positions, effectively managed, monitored and continually developed
- Goal setting and reaching an established set of objectives and KPI’s
- To analyse and understand cost drivers to ensure profitability and student happiness
- To grow revenue and service net areas in campus
- To manage capacity and budget and work successfully within those parameters
- Responsible for the health, safety, welfare and duty of care of all students and staff
- Ensure customer service is exemplary, and student feedback targets are met
- Ensure follow up of customer suggestions, issues, complaints and disciplinary matters to satisfactory and timely resolutions
- To monitor and manage the residential and homestay provision capacity to accommodate seasonal and year-on-year growth
- Maintain building, facilities and student residence to a high standard to ensure customer satisfaction
- Negotiate effectively with suppliers
- Liaise with a worldwide network of sales offices to assist them in meeting their sales objectives and responsibilities towards students
- Ensure that in-school sales are being efficiently managed and maximised, improving strategies to ensure that set targets are being met and exceeded
- Liaise with concession holder and external suppliers to ensure that the facilities meet agreed standards
- Position is full-time and will require some weekend work at certain times of year
- Shared emergency phone duties are part of the role
Why to work at EF
- Continuous professional development for all staff
- Work in a truly international environment
- Ambition is nurtured and fast-tracked career enhancement opportunities are provided
- Staff are encouraged to innovate, take ownership of their ideas and bring them to fruition
- Global career opportunities
- Employee Assistance Program
- Private medical insurance
- Life insurance
- Cycle to work scheme
- Free access to EF Hello language learning
EF is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. References will be followed up and will ask specifically whether there is any reason that the applicant should not be engaged in situations where they have responsibility for, or substantial access to, persons under 18. Upon interview all gaps in CVs must be explained satisfactorily and proof of identity and, where applicable, qualifications will be required. Appropriate suitability checks will be required prior to confirmation of appointment. EF is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and we are committed to inclusion and belonging across race, ethnicity, gender, age, religion, identity, parental status, experience, and everything else that makes you unique.
School Director employer: EF Education First Gruppe
Contact Detail:
EF Education First Gruppe Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land School Director
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with EF Education First's mission and values. Understanding their commitment to education and cultural exchange will help you align your leadership style with their goals, making you a more attractive candidate.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of EF. Engaging with them can provide insights into the company culture and expectations, which can be invaluable during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully managed teams in fast-paced environments. Highlighting your experience in operational excellence and team development will demonstrate your fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the latest trends in international education and language learning. Being knowledgeable about industry developments will show your passion for the field and your readiness to drive growth at the campus.
We think you need these skills to ace School Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, especially in leadership roles and managing teams. Emphasise your customer service focus and any operational experience you have, particularly in the education sector.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for education and your entrepreneurial spirit. Discuss how your previous experiences align with the responsibilities of the School Director role and how you can contribute to the growth of EF Oxford.
Showcase Leadership Skills: Provide specific examples of how you've successfully led teams, managed budgets, and improved customer satisfaction in past roles. Highlight your ability to inspire and motivate staff, as this is crucial for the position.
Demonstrate Cultural Awareness: Given the international nature of EF, mention any global or cross-cultural experiences you have. This could include language skills, travel, or working in diverse environments, which will show your ability to connect with a varied student body.
How to prepare for a job interview at EF Education First Gruppe
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a School Director, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead and inspire a diverse team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past, focusing on your approach to motivation and development.
✨Emphasise Customer Service Experience
With a relentless focus on customer service being crucial for this role, be ready to discuss specific instances where you've improved customer satisfaction or handled complaints effectively. Highlight your commitment to quality and student happiness.
✨Demonstrate Financial Acumen
Understanding budget management is key for this position. Be prepared to talk about your experience with financial planning, cost analysis, and how you've ensured profitability in previous roles.
✨Prepare for Cultural Sensitivity Questions
Given the international nature of the role, expect questions about cross-cultural communication and conflict resolution. Share experiences that showcase your ability to navigate diverse environments and foster inclusivity.
