Chief Operating Officer in London

Lead operational excellence, deliver transformational projects and shape the future of a leading independent school in London. Emanuel School is seeking an exceptional Chief Operating Officer to join the senior leadership team at a pivotal moment in the school’s development. This is a rare opportunity for a commercially minded and strategically driven leader to oversee a complex multi-site estate, deliver major capital projects and support the school’s long-term operational and commercial ambitions.

A key priority will be the successful delivery and opening of a landmark new £30 million STEM and Refectory building in 2027, alongside the continued development of the wider estate. Working closely with the Headmaster, Governing Body and Chief Financial Officer (Bursar), the Chief Operating Officer will provide strategic oversight of the school’s operations, infrastructure and commercial activities.

Alongside leading major capital projects and operational services, the successful candidate will help develop additional revenue streams, commercial partnerships and long-term opportunities that support the school’s continued growth and ambition. The successful candidate will also lead high-performing teams across estates, health and safety, catering, commercial lettings and development, ensuring the school continues to provide an exceptional environment for pupils, staff and the wider community.

The ideal candidate will bring a strong track record of senior leadership within a complex and fast-paced organisation, together with the credibility, judgement and interpersonal skills to operate effectively at executive and board level. They will be an accomplished relationship-builder, able to engage confidently with governors, senior colleagues, external partners and operational teams alike.

Financially and commercially astute, they will be comfortable balancing long-term strategic priorities with the practical demands of a busy organisation. The ability to inspire teams, drive continuous improvement and contribute positively to the wider life and values of the school community is equally important.

Working at Emanuel: There is always a buzz at Emanuel. Colleagues enjoy their work and, like the pupils, are ambitious for the school. With a weekly staff briefing, half termly staff meetings, termly consultative group meetings and a common room committee, all of us are engaged in a lively ongoing dialogue about the school’s aims and aspirations.

Everyone works hard here, and anyone joining us should expect to do the same and share our commitment to the highest standards. At the same time our ethos remains unpretentious, kindly and practical, and there’s a strong sense of community and friendship at the school.

We aim to look after our staff well: we have an appraisal scheme with a focus on employees’ professional development; we sponsor postgraduate courses and a range of training opportunities; we offer salary sacrifice childcare vouchers through TEDS Premier, we offer a healthcare plan via Simply Health that includes counselling and medical support; and we’re committed to supporting staff wellbeing. Financially, all staff benefit from good pension provision and free lunches.

Please note that this post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and is subject to a Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check. Emanuel School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Prior to applying, candidates should read our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy, Recruitment Policy and Recruitment Privacy Notice. Closing date for applications is Wednesday 27th May 2026.