Operations Manager in St Andrews

St Leonards is a friendly and forward-looking independent, coeducational, boarding and day school situated on an historic campus at the heart of the university town of St Andrews. The school enjoys an unrivalled location - there are sandy beaches, world-class Links golf courses, and historic sites on its doorstep.

The Operations Manager will oversee the day-to-day operations of the Estates Department managing the maintenance, grounds and cleaning functions, whilst driving continuous improvement and maintaining compliance.

Reporting to the Head of Estates and Facilities, the Operations Manager is tasked with allocation of departmental resources, ensuring the School’s operations run smoothly, efficiently and in alignment with the strategic goals.

The estate comprises 19 buildings including 3 boarding houses, ranging from 16th century historic properties within a nationally designated Scheduled Monument, through to more modern educational facilities. As Operations Manager you will oversee daily operations across all aspects of estates and facilities working closely with the Head of Estates and Facilities to ensure compliance, projects, maintenance and facilities are all delivered to high standards, ensuring the best environment for pupils and staff to thrive in.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations across a cross-functional team managing the maintenance, grounds and janitorial functions
• Allocate resources efficiently and optimise workflows
• Manage and coordinate a network of local and national maintenance contractors to ensure compliance to SFG20 standards
• Set and monitor contractor KPIs, prepare performance reports, and ensure compliance with legal, safety and quality standards
• Ensure alignment with organisational goals
• Develop and implement day-to-day operational and Health & Safety strategies and risk assessments
• Manage stakeholder relationships
• Identify operational issues, bottlenecks and challenges, and implement process improvements
• Establish clear expectations, accountability and performance standards from direct reports
• Conduct regular performance reviews and support ongoing employee development
• Build a positive, accountable and high-performing culture
• Identify opportunities to improve current processes, reduce waste and increase operational efficiency.

Skills, Experience and Qualifications

• Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills
• Proficiency in CAFM, CRM, data analytics or similar software tools
• Computer literate in standard IT systems e.g. Google, Windows and spreadsheets
• NEBOSH General Certificate in Safety, Health & Environment or equivalent, relevant experience
• Keen understanding of relevant maintenance compliance, safety and regulatory standards
• Ability to manage budgets, forecast spending, and control costs
• Confident handling employee relations, performance management and workplace conflict
• Highly organised, proactive and comfortable working in a safeguarding role
• Ability to work within a team environment and independently across multiple operational disciplines
• Practical, positive, flexible approach with an emphasis on stakeholder service.

St Leonards is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive culture, where all members of the community - colleagues, pupils and families - are seen and valued. This culture ensures that St Leonards delivers an outstanding global education in a multi-cultural living, learning and working environment.

This is a Regulated Role, therefore the Operations Manager will be required to hold current PVG Scheme Membership for the duration of their employment.

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