Operations Manager

Operations Manager

Full-Time 30000 - 40000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
Suffolk County Council

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead operations to ensure a safe and welcoming school environment.
  • Company: Ipswich High School, a supportive and community-focused educational institution.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, permanent contract, and a chance to make a real difference.
  • Other info: Opportunity for professional growth in a dynamic educational setting.
  • Why this job: Join a close-knit team and help create an inspiring learning space for students.
  • Qualifications: Strong leadership skills and experience in facilities management.

The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.

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Job Details

  • Address: Woolverstone, Ipswich, Suffolk IP9 1AZ
  • Salary: Competitive
  • Hours: 36 hours per week, 52 weeks per year*
  • Contract: Permanent
  • Reference: 8692

Competitive remuneration, based on skills, knowledge and experience.

At the heart of a successful school is an environment where pupils feel safe, staff feel supported and everything works as it should, often without being noticed. We are now looking for an Operations Manager who understands just how vital that quiet excellence is. This is a key leadership role for someone who takes pride in high standards, clear systems and well‑run spaces, and who enjoys working as part of a close‑knit school community.

The Operations Manager will ensure that our site, facilities and operational services are safe, compliant, well maintained and welcoming, allowing teaching and learning to flourish. Working closely with the Head and Senior Leadership Team, the postholder will lead health and safety, estates and facilities, site security, transport oversight and contractor management. They will bring calm authority, sound judgement and a collaborative approach, balancing day‑to‑day operational demands with longer‑term planning and improvement.

Responsibilities

  • Lead health and safety, estates and facilities, site security, transport oversight and contractor management.
  • Work closely with the Head and Senior Leadership Team to maintain a safe, compliant, well‑maintained and welcoming site.
  • Balance day‑to‑day operational demands with long‑term planning and improvement.

Operations Manager employer: Suffolk County Council

Ipswich High School is an exceptional employer that fosters a supportive and collaborative work culture, where staff are valued and encouraged to thrive. With a focus on high standards and a commitment to employee growth, the Operations Manager will play a pivotal role in ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for both pupils and staff. Located in the picturesque setting of Woolverstone, Suffolk, this permanent position offers competitive remuneration and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact within a close-knit school community.
Suffolk County Council

Contact Detail:

Suffolk County Council Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Operations Manager

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who might know about opportunities at Ipswich High School. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to a foot in the door.

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for the interview by researching the school’s values and recent initiatives. We want you to show how your experience aligns with their mission of creating a safe and welcoming environment for both staff and students.

✨Tip Number 3

Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially those related to health and safety and facilities management. We suggest using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers effectively.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and shows your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it keeps you on their radar as they make their decision.

We think you need these skills to ace Operations Manager

Leadership Skills
Health and Safety Management
Estates and Facilities Management
Site Security Management
Transport Oversight
Contractor Management
Operational Planning
Collaboration Skills
Judgement
Attention to Detail
Problem-Solving Skills
Communication Skills
Adaptability

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience that match the Operations Manager role. Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant operational management skills to show us you’re the perfect fit!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re passionate about creating a safe and welcoming environment in schools. Share specific examples of how you've maintained high standards in previous roles.

Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit: Since this role involves working closely with the Head and Senior Leadership Team, make sure to mention your teamwork skills. We love candidates who can demonstrate their ability to work well with others and lead by example.

Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!

How to prepare for a job interview at Suffolk County Council

✨Know Your Stuff

Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the role of an Operations Manager. Familiarise yourself with key responsibilities like health and safety, site security, and contractor management. This will help you speak confidently about how your experience aligns with their needs.

✨Showcase Your Leadership Style

Since this is a leadership role, be prepared to discuss your approach to managing teams and projects. Share specific examples of how you've successfully led initiatives in the past, especially in a school or similar environment. This will demonstrate your ability to work collaboratively with the Senior Leadership Team.

✨Prepare Questions

Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the school's culture, operational challenges, and future plans. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.

✨Emphasise Problem-Solving Skills

Operations Managers often face unexpected challenges. Be ready to discuss how you've tackled issues in previous roles, particularly those related to maintaining a safe and compliant environment. Highlight your calm authority and sound judgement in these situations.

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