Senior Operations Leader, Education & Systems in Manchester

Creating the conditions for excellence. At Oasis Academy Temple, we believe great schools are calm, well run places where staff can focus fully on teaching and young people can thrive. The Operations Manager plays a vital role in creating these conditions for success. This is a senior leadership position for a thoughtful and capable professional who understands that structure, clarity, and strong systems underpin exceptional education. As a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, you will be someone whose judgement is trusted, whose advice is valued, and whose presence brings consistency and stability.

The role combines long term strategic planning with hands-on leadership and relies on strong, professional relationships with staff, governors, families, and regional and national Oasis teams. We are seeking an Operations Manager who brings confidence without noise, leadership without ego, and a deep commitment to doing things properly, someone who understands that when operations run well, everyone feels it.

Leading operations at Temple. The Operations Manager provides strategic and operational leadership for the academy’s non-teaching functions, with responsibility across finance, HR, estates, health and safety, IT, administration, and compliance. The role ensures the academy operates efficiently, safely, and in alignment with Oasis values and statutory requirements. Through the leadership and development of operational teams, clear expectations are established and a professional, solution-focused culture is embedded.

In collaboration with the Senior Leadership Team, systems and processes are strengthened, risks are managed effectively, and day to day operations run smoothly, enabling teachers to focus on teaching and students to learn without distraction. Acting as a key link between the academy and the wider Oasis organisation, the role translates strategic priorities into effective local practice.

Who we are looking for. This role would suit an experienced operations or business professional, ideally with experience in education or a similarly complex organisation, who is organised, reflective, and calm under pressure. You will be financially literate, confident leading people, and comfortable operating at senior level, including offering constructive challenge when needed.

Above all, you will share our belief that operational excellence matters because children matter. You will be committed to safeguarding, fairness, and accountability, and motivated by the difference well-run systems make to young people’s lives.

Why join Oasis Academy Temple. Oasis Community Learning’s vision is “Exceptional Education at the Heart of the Community.” At Temple, operations are integral to that vision. In this role, you will be trusted to lead, supported to develop, and given genuine influence over how the academy runs.

You will benefit from being part of a strong national network of operations professionals while retaining meaningful local leadership responsibility. We offer professional development opportunities, clear scope for career progression, and a values-driven environment where your contribution is recognised and respected.

If you are looking for a senior role where your expertise brings order, confidence, and stability, and where your work quietly enables others to succeed, this could be the right next step.