Operational Office Manager (Member of SLT) in Stafford

Operational Office Manager (Member of SLT)

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Penk Valley Academy Trust, Are you a natural leader who thrives on building strong relationships and leading teams to success? Wolgarston High School is looking for an Operations Manager who will not only ensure the smooth running of our school but also be a visible, approachable presence for staff, students, parents, and the wider community. This is a key leadership position where you will be the face of the school for all operational matters, working closely with the Headteacher and Senior Leadership Team to make the school a “World Class” education provider. You’ll lead and inspire our support staff, manage day-to-day operations, and develop systems that keep our school running efficiently and safely. You’ll be the first point of contact for many stakeholders—staff, parents, external partners, and the local community—so excellent communication and interpersonal skills are essential. Beyond day-to-day management, you’ll drive improvements, oversee contracts, and ensure our school environment is safe, efficient, and welcoming.

What You’ll Do

• Lead and motivate the administration and site teams, fostering a positive and collaborative culture.
• Build strong relationships with staff, parents, external partners, and the local community.
• Oversee all operational areas including premises, catering, ICT, health & safety, and HR processes.
• Represent the school at external meetings and ensure compliance with statutory and Trust requirements.
• Promote the school through excellent customer service and community engagement.

What We’re Looking For

• A confident communicator who can influence and inspire others.
• Proven experience in operational management, ideally within education.
• Strong organisational and leadership skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Knowledge of compliance frameworks including health & safety and data protection.
• NVQ Level 3 or equivalent qualification and ICT proficiency.

Why Join Us?

At Wolgarston High School, you’ll be part of a forward-thinking team within the Penk Valley Academy Trust. This is an opportunity to make a real impact, lead change, and help shape the future of our school.

This is a permanent and full‑time position. The core hours for this position are 37 hours across Monday to Friday. The exact distribution of these hours can be discussed at interview.

Visits to the school are welcomed. Please contact Mrs Cooper (Head’s PA) via email s-cooper@penkvalley.co.uk or by telephone on 01785 788400 to arrange a call or visit.

Employee Benefits

• Access to first class CPD opportunities
• Genuine opportunities for career progression – with 7 schools within the academy
• Professional assistance – you will have access to an Employee Assistance Programme
• Pension – automatic enrolment into Local Government Pension Scheme
• Discounted gym memberships
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Free will writing service

The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment and responsibility. Applicants will be required to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.

All staff working in the School during the school day will have contact with children and will therefore be in regulated activity.

The post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the School is therefore permitted to ask job applicants to declare all convictions and cautions (including those which are “spent” unless they are “protected” under the DBS filtering rules) in order to assess their suitability to work with children.