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- Tasks: Lead operational functions and drive strategic growth across our multi-academy trust.
- Company: Join Derby Diocesan Academy Trust, a values-driven organisation focused on inclusive education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, year-round contract, and opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and young people in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in managing complex operations and delivering organisational improvement.
- Other info: Dynamic role with a commitment to equality and safeguarding within a diverse community.
The predicted salary is between 95039 - 107430 £ per year.
Salary: L1-5 £95,039 - £107,430
Contract type: Full time, year‑round
Location: Multi‑site across the Trust (with regular travel), Central Office Bakewell
Accountable to: CEO
Our thriving and values-driven multi-academy trust is seeking to appoint an experienced Chief Operating Officer (COO) to help realise our vision of delivering high-quality, inclusive education rooted in Christian values. Derby Diocesan Academy Trust (DDAT) was established in 2014 for schools choosing to become an academy as well as for those who found themselves in need of a sponsor. Our vision is to build a better future for all across our academies who, in turn, will positively impact their communities. We want our children and young people to be able to ‘experience life in all its fullness’ and although this phrase is rooted in a Christian narrative (taken from John 10:10), irrespective of a faith perspective, that is what all of us want for our pupils.
This is an exciting opportunity for a skilled and strategic leader to shape and strengthen our Central Services Team, playing a key role in delivering our ambitious plans for sustainable growth. Excellence across all operational functions will be vital in supporting our current family of schools, while also developing the systems, structures, and capacity needed for the future.
Working closely with the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Finance Officer, you will contribute to the strategic leadership and operational effectiveness of the Trust, deputising where required. You will lead all non-academic and central service functions alongside the CFO who oversees finance, ensuring they reflect and reinforce our vision, values, and distinctively Christian ethos.
We are looking for a highly experienced leader with a proven track record of delivering organisational improvement and managing complex operations within a comparable setting. You will bring strong strategic insight, a collaborative approach, and a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities across central support services. Above all, you will be committed to making a meaningful difference to the lives of children and young people.
To find out more and register your interest for the role, please visit www.joinddat.co.uk. To apply, please visit https://derbydiocesanacademytrust.face-ed.co.uk/Vacancies/Detail?campaignRef=SCH-DDAT-0012.
If you have any questions or queries about the role, please do not hesitate to get in touch by contacting Jenna Everett on 01744 634654 or email jenna@satiseducation.co.uk.
The closing date for applications is: Monday 27th April 2026, 9am
Shortlisting: Tuesday 28th April 2026
Interviews will take place on: 7th & 8th May 2026
DDAT welcomes a diverse population of both children and staff and is committed to promoting and developing equality of opportunity in all its functions. DDAT is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to satisfactory references, online checks, completion of a probationary period, pre-employment and Disclosure Barring Service checks. The possession of a criminal record will not necessarily prevent an applicant from obtaining this post, as all cases are judged individually according to the nature of the role and information provided. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and therefore applicants are required to declare any cautions, convictions, reprimands and final warnings that are not protected (i.e. that are not filtered out) as defined by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (as amended in 2013 and 2020).
Please note that all candidates must have a right to work in the UK in order to be able to work at our Trust. Unfortunately, we are unable to offer sponsorship for international job applicants.
Chief Operating Officer | Derby Diocesan Academy Trust employer: Satis Education Ltd
Contact Detail:
Satis Education Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Operating Officer | Derby Diocesan Academy Trust
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who might know someone at Derby Diocesan Academy Trust. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to insider info or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching DDAT's values and recent initiatives. Show us that you’re not just a fit for the role but also for our mission of delivering high-quality, inclusive education rooted in Christian values.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate how your experience aligns with the COO role. Highlight your strategic leadership skills and how you’ve successfully managed complex operations in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows us you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at DDAT.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Operating Officer | Derby Diocesan Academy Trust
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the values and vision of Derby Diocesan Academy Trust. Highlight your experience in delivering organisational improvement and managing complex operations, as these are key for the COO role.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: We want to see your strategic insight and collaborative approach. Use specific examples from your past roles to demonstrate how you've led teams and improved operational effectiveness in similar settings.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Avoid jargon and ensure that your passion for making a difference in children's lives shines through. Remember, clarity is key!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application via our official website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Satis Education Ltd
✨Know the Trust Inside Out
Before your interview, take some time to really understand Derby Diocesan Academy Trust's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their approach to education and how they integrate Christian values into their operations. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you align your answers with their vision.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Insight
As a COO, you'll need to demonstrate strong strategic thinking. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led organisational improvements or managed complex operations. Be ready to discuss how you can apply that insight to enhance the Trust's central services and support its growth.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Collaboration is key in this role, especially when working closely with the CEO and CFO. Think of instances where you've fostered teamwork and built relationships across departments. Highlight your ability to work collaboratively to achieve common goals, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and decision-making abilities. Practice articulating how you would handle specific challenges related to operational effectiveness within an educational setting. This will help you convey your readiness to tackle the unique challenges faced by the Trust.