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- Tasks: Lead key operational areas like finance, IT, and health & safety to support student success.
- Company: Join the largest further education college in the region, dedicated to student and community growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy a dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional development and impact.
- Other info: Contact Amanda Hart at FE Associates for more details before the closing date.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education while working with a values-driven team focused on excellence.
- Qualifications: Must have experience in corporate services and a strong track record in leadership roles.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Our client is a leading provider of education and skills in the Liverpool City Region, committed to transforming lives through high‑quality technical and professional learning.
With a strong reputation for innovation, collaboration and community impact, the college plays a vital role in supporting local and regional priorities, delivering outstanding outcomes for learners, staff and employers, and strengthening its position as an anchor institution in the area.
Our client is seeking a strategic and dynamic Chief Operating Officer to join its Principalship Team. This pivotal role will shape and drive the college’s operational strategy, ensuring systems, resources and infrastructure are future‑ready, financially sustainable, and capable of supporting exceptional teaching, learning, and student experience. The COO will provide executive leadership across all non‑curricular functions, champion digital transformation, operational excellence, and service innovation, and foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Our client has engaged FE Associates to support them with this appointment. Interested parties should contact for an initial discussion.
Closing date: 9am on Monday 1 June 2026
Interviews: Friday 12 June and Monday 15 June 2026
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Chief Operating Officer employer: FEA
Contact Detail:
FEA Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Operating Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the education sector, especially those who have experience in operational roles. Attend relevant conferences or seminars to connect with potential colleagues and gain insights into the challenges and opportunities within further education.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the College's Brilliance Plan and their core values of ambition, care, respect, and success. Understanding these will help you articulate how your leadership style aligns with their mission during discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've led teams through change and improved operational efficiency in previous roles. Highlighting measurable outcomes will demonstrate your capability to deliver high-performing, customer-focused teams.
✨Tip Number 4
Reach out to Amanda Hart at FE Associates for insights about the role and the selection process. This can provide you with valuable information that may not be publicly available and show your proactive approach to securing the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Operating Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take time to thoroughly read the job description for the Chief Operating Officer position. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, as this will help you tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, focus on your previous leadership roles and specific achievements in corporate services, financial management, and team development. Use quantifiable results to demonstrate your impact in past positions.
Align with Values: Showcase how your personal values align with those of the College: ambition, care, respect, and success. Provide examples from your career that illustrate your commitment to these values and how they have guided your decision-making.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a strong cover letter that not only summarises your qualifications but also expresses your passion for education and operational excellence. Make sure to address how you can contribute to the College’s Brilliance Plan and overall vision.
How to prepare for a job interview at FEA
✨Understand the College's Values
Before the interview, make sure you are familiar with the College's values of ambition, care, respect, and success. Be prepared to discuss how your leadership style aligns with these values and provide examples of how you've demonstrated them in your previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Vision
As a COO, you'll need to demonstrate a clear strategic vision for the operational areas you'll oversee. Think about how you can articulate your ideas on improving efficiency and aligning services with the College's academic ambitions during the interview.
✨Highlight Your Experience in Corporate Services
Be ready to discuss your track record in corporate services, financial and risk management. Prepare specific examples of how you've led high-performing teams and delivered customer-focused results in previous positions.
✨Prepare Questions for the Interviewers
Interviews are a two-way street, so prepare insightful questions to ask the interview panel. This could include inquiries about the College's future plans, challenges they face, or how they measure success in operational areas. It shows your genuine interest in the role and the institution.