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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operations across finance, IT, compliance, and more to drive excellence.
- Company: A purpose-driven Federation focused on making a difference for children with SEND.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, dynamic work environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact in the lives of young people while leading innovative operational strategies.
- Qualifications: Senior experience in financial management and operational leadership required.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team dedicated to achieving the best outcomes for pupils.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
This is a rare and exciting opportunity for an experienced operational leader to influence, innovate, and drive excellence across finance, estates, IT, compliance, catering, health & safety, and organisational development. If you are motivated by purpose, thrive in a dynamic environment, and want to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and young people with SEND, we would love to hear from you.
About the Role
As our Head of Operations, you will:
- This is a role for a strategic thinker who can also deliver operational excellence day to day.
Responsibilities
- Provide strategic leadership across all non-teaching operational functions of the Federation
- Lead financial planning, budget management, and long-term resource strategy
- Oversee estates and facilities management across multiple sites, ensuring safe, secure, and high-quality learning environments
- Drive digital development, cyber security, and IT strategy
- Lead on compliance, risk management, data protection, and statutory responsibilities
- Manage key operational leaders including Premises, Finance & IT, Catering, Marketing, and Health & Safety
- Support the Principal and Heads of School in delivering the Federation's strategic vision
- Lead capital projects, procurement, and value for money initiatives
- Develop and implement fundraising and income generation strategies
- Report to and advise the Governing Board on all operational matters
Essential Experience & Skills
- Senior level experience in financial management and operational leadership
- Strong understanding of estates, facilities, and health & safety management
- Knowledge of data protection and safer recruitment
- Experience managing teams and developing staff
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organisational skills
- High levels of accuracy, attention to detail, and professional integrity
- Ability to work under pressure, prioritise effectively, and meet deadlines
- Confident use of IT systems, including Microsoft 365, IOSH Certificate
- GCSEs in English and Maths
- Full UK Driving Licence
Desirable
- Experience in the education sector
- Knowledge of Access Education Finance, Arbor MIS, or Smartlog
- Small Pool Operators Certificate
- Commercial or business acumen
Personal Qualities
- A commitment to the Federation's values and to achieving the best outcomes for pupils
- Integrity, honesty, resilience, and adaptability
- Ability to build strong relationships and collaborate effectively
- A positive, flexible approach and willingness to work across multiple sites
Head of Operations in Aylesbury employer: The Vale Federation
Contact Detail:
The Vale Federation Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Operations in Aylesbury
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector and let them know you're on the hunt for a Head of Operations role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on an opportunity or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by researching the organisation thoroughly. Understand their values, mission, and recent developments. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference in the lives of children and young people with SEND.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your answers and boost your confidence. Focus on showcasing your strategic thinking and operational excellence, as these are key for the Head of Operations role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! We make it easy for you to submit your application and keep track of your progress. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our team and making a meaningful impact.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Operations in Aylesbury
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in operational leadership and financial management. We want to see how your skills align with our mission to make a difference in the lives of children and young people with SEND.
Showcase Your Strategic Thinking: In your application, emphasise your ability to think strategically while also delivering day-to-day operational excellence. We’re looking for someone who can balance both aspects effectively, so give us examples of how you've done this in the past.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Don’t forget to mention any experience you have in estates management, compliance, or health & safety. These are key areas for us, and showcasing your expertise will help you stand out in the application process.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates during the hiring process!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Vale Federation
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of the Head of Operations role. Brush up on financial management, compliance, and facilities management. Being able to discuss these areas confidently will show that you're not just interested in the job, but that you’re ready to hit the ground running.
✨Show Your Strategic Thinking
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led operational strategies in the past. Think about times when you’ve driven innovation or improved processes. This will demonstrate your ability to think strategically while also managing day-to-day operations effectively.
✨Communicate Clearly
As this role requires excellent communication skills, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Be ready to explain complex ideas simply, especially when discussing compliance and risk management. Good communication can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Demonstrate Your Values
The Federation is looking for someone who aligns with their values and is committed to making a difference. Be prepared to share your personal values and how they align with the mission of the organisation. Showing genuine passion for the role and its impact on children and young people will resonate well with the interviewers.
