About this Role
The Royal Academy of Arts is seeking an exceptional Director of Operations to join its Senior Leadership Team during a period of significant opportunity and transformation
Reporting to the Secretary and Chief Executive, the role oversees Estates, People, IT, Procurement and Sustainability, providing strategic leadership across the Academy's operational functions. Responsible for driving organisational effectiveness, major capital projects and operational transformation, the Director of Operations will help ensure the Academy remains resilient, sustainable and well-positioned for the future.
Working across a diverse range of stakeholders, the successful candidate will bring clarity, pace and operational discipline, translating strategic priorities into measurable outcomes while fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration and continuous improvement. They will also play a key role in strengthening organisational confidence and supporting teams through change.
This is a rare opportunity to make a lasting impact within one of the world's leading cultural institutions and help shape its future success.
About You
You will be an accomplished operational leader with experience gained at executive or board level within a complex organisation and a proven track record of leading multidisciplinary teams delivering organisational objectives. Comfortable operating at both strategic and operational levels, you will combine strong judgement with a practical and pragmatic approach to leadership.
You will bring experience across diverse portfolio including areas such as estates, facilities management, technology, procurement, security and people services, together with a strong understanding of governance, risk, business continuity and organisational performance. Experience leading major capital projects, organisational change and operational transformation initiatives is essential, along with the ability to establish credibility quickly, navigate complexity and bring clarity and structure to evolving environments.
Credible, collaborative and influential, you will build strong relationships across the organisation, fostering high-performing teams and a culture of accountability, continuous improvement and operational excellence. You will be adept at influencing senior stakeholders, driving alignment across complex organisat...
Director of Operations employer: The Management Recruitment Group Careers
The University of Bedfordshire is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work environment that fosters professional growth and innovation. As part of our commitment to the 'Transforming Bedfordshire' Strategy, employees benefit from engaging in meaningful projects that directly impact our vibrant academic community, while enjoying a culture that values diverse perspectives and collaboration. With a focus on strategic development and operational excellence, this role provides a unique opportunity to lead change in a supportive atmosphere dedicated to sustainability and inclusivity.
Contact Details:
The Management Recruitment Group Careers Recruitment Team
