The Head and Governors are seeking to appoint an accomplished, strategic and collaborative Chief Operating Officer to join the Executive Team and translate the Foundation's ambitions into effective operational delivery.
The Leys and St Faith's Schools are leading co-educational independent schools in the heart of Cambridge owned by the same charitable Foundation. The Leys is a boarding and day school with 570 pupils aged 11 to 18 and St Faith's is a day school with 530 day pupils aged 3 to 13. Situated less than half a mile apart, the two schools will merge in September 2028 to become a single all-through school, The Leys School, Cambridge, offering a seamless educational journey from Early Years to Sixth Form.
Reporting to the Head of The Leys, the Chief Operating Officer (COO) will lead Estates and Facilities, Site Operations, HR, Marketing, Admissions and Communications, and Administration. They will bring professional services together across both sites, prepare operations for the merger and lead the delivery of capital projects within an ambitious master plan. Working closely with the CFO and CCO, the COO will translate strategic ambition into practical delivery, sustaining excellent services while building the capacity for longer-term growth. For a leader who enjoys bringing people together and turning strategy into lasting change, this role offers the chance to shape how the Foundation operates, develops and grows.
The successful candidate will combine strategic vision with the energy and discipline to deliver. They will bring a proven track record of senior operational leadership, strategic planning and commercial acumen, alongside the ability to motivate multi-disciplinary teams and build strong partnerships between teaching and professional services. Experience in the education sector is not essential, but candidates must demonstrate understanding of, and commitment to the purpose, aims and vision of a high‑performing independent boarding school.
A generous remuneration package including fee remission and family accommodation is offered, reflecting the seniority and significance of the role.
The closing date for applications is 10.00am on Monday 7 December2026.
N.B. Safer recruitment checks will be made at all stages in the recruitment process.
- The Leys and St Faith's Schools are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure & Barring Service.
- This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020.
- The safeguarding responsibilities of this post are detailed in the candidate information brochure.
- RSAcademics is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and to promoting diversity and inclusion in schools.
The deadline for receipt of the applications is 10.00am (UK time) on Monday 7 December 2026
Long List interviews will take place online via MS Teams on Wednesday 9, Friday 11 and Monday 14 December 2026
Visits to the The Leys and St Faith's for the short listed candidates will take place in the week commencing 11 January 2027
Short List interviews will take place at The Leys in the week commencing 18 January 2027
Chief Operating Officer – The Leys and St Faith’s Schools in Cambridge employer: RS Academics Ltd.
Queen Anne’s School is an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing environment where educational leaders can thrive and make a meaningful impact on the lives of young girls. With a strong commitment to academic excellence and personal growth, the school fosters a collaborative culture that values each individual's contributions while providing ample opportunities for professional development. Set in a beautiful 35-acre campus in Caversham, Berkshire, the school not only boasts impressive facilities but also a close-knit community that supports both staff and students in their journey towards success.
