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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic operations across multiple schools and enhance educational environments.
- Company: Join a growing Catholic Academy Trust dedicated to student and staff success.
- Benefits: Highly competitive salary, generous pension scheme, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in shaping the future of education within a supportive community.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in executive leadership and strategic planning.
- Other info: Flexible working location with opportunities for personal growth.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
St Oscar Romero Catholic Academy Trust is recruiting for a Chief Operating Officer (COO). The contract length is permanent with a highly competitive salary range and benefits. The location is flexible, with work primarily at different schools within the Trust and a head office at Shirley Court, Croydon, CR9 5AS.
The Chief Operating Officer will play a crucial role in the strategic leadership of Trust-wide estates and site development and management, IT services and technology, facilities and operations, health and safety, and the growth strategy of our Trust. We are seeking an individual who possesses exceptional knowledge and acumen in these areas, as well as a passion for fostering a positive and innovative environment where both students and staff can thrive. Our Catholic ethos and mission is at the heart of everything we do, and we expect candidates to share and embrace those values.
The ideal candidate will:
- Have extensive previous experience of working as part of an Executive Leadership Team.
- Be able to communicate complex estate management, IT and technology, and growth strategic planning to diverse audiences.
- Share our commitment to transparency and accountability.
- Play a key role in shaping the strategy of the Trust and ensuring that strong practice and strategy are embedded within all strategic planning.
- Align to the mission, vision, and values of St Oscar Romero and the Diocese.
In return, we offer:
- The opportunity to work within a highly skilled and supportive team.
- A commitment to continue with national pay, terms, and conditions.
- Access to the generous Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Staff benefits, including a cycle to work scheme.
- Opportunities for personal and professional growth and access to our Training Portal.
- The opportunity to join a growing Trust.
Closing date: 9:00am Monday 23rd February. Interview date: w/c 2nd March. Start date: To be agreed.
How to apply: The deadline for receipt of applications is 9:00am on Monday 23rd February 2026. If you would like to arrange a visit or have a telephone appointment to discuss the role with Clare Verga, Chief Executive Officer, please contact Sarah Yusuf-Watson by email at syusufwatson@oscarromero.co.uk. Applicants should complete the Catholic Education Service Leadership form, available in supporting documents. Please use the personal statement in your application form to demonstrate how you meet the person specification, with evidence provided wherever possible of outcomes and positive impact. Candidates will be shortlisted based on how well they demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and attributes set out in the job description and person specification. Completed forms should be submitted by email.
Safeguarding: St Oscar Romero Catholic Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff and volunteers are expected to behave in such a way that supports this commitment. Appointment to this post will be subject to satisfactory shortlisting and pre-employment checks, including an Enhanced DBS check.
Locations
Chief Operating Officer (COO) in Croydon, London employer: ST OSCAR ROMERO CATHOLIC ACADEMY TRUST
Contact Detail:
ST OSCAR ROMERO CATHOLIC ACADEMY TRUST Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Operating Officer (COO) in Croydon, London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who might know someone at St Oscar Romero. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the Trust’s values and recent developments. Show us you’re not just a fit for the role but also for our mission. Tailor your responses to reflect how your experience aligns with our goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get a friend or mentor to do mock interviews with you. This will help you articulate your thoughts clearly and confidently, especially when discussing complex topics like estate management and strategic planning.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression. It shows us you’re genuinely interested in the role and appreciate the opportunity to discuss your potential contribution.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Operating Officer (COO) in Croydon, London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for education and the Catholic ethos shine through. We want to see how you align with our mission and values, so don’t hold back on sharing what drives you!
Be Specific: Use the personal statement section to provide concrete examples of your previous experience. We’re looking for evidence of outcomes and positive impacts, so make sure to highlight your achievements in estate management, IT services, and strategic planning.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure your application speaks directly to the job description and person specification. We want to see how your skills and experiences match what we’re looking for, so customise your application to show us you’re the perfect fit!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application via our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re following the correct process. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team at St Oscar Romero!
How to prepare for a job interview at ST OSCAR ROMERO CATHOLIC ACADEMY TRUST
✨Know the Trust Inside Out
Before your interview, take some time to research St Oscar Romero Catholic Academy Trust. Understand their mission, vision, and values, especially their commitment to fostering a positive environment. This will help you align your answers with their ethos and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
As a COO, your experience in executive leadership is crucial. Prepare specific examples from your past roles where you've successfully led teams or projects, particularly in areas like estate management or IT services. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses clearly.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
You'll need to convey complex information to diverse audiences, so practice explaining your ideas in a straightforward manner. Consider doing mock interviews with friends or colleagues to refine your communication skills and ensure you're comfortable discussing technical topics without jargon.
✨Prepare for Job-Related Exercises
The interview process will include job-related exercises, so be ready to demonstrate your strategic planning skills. Think about how you would approach growth strategies for the Trust and be prepared to discuss your thought process. This will show your ability to think critically and strategically about the role.
