School Director of Operations & Contract Management

Contract: Full-time, Permanent
Start Date: As soon as possible

We are seeking an experienced and highly organised School Contracts / Operations Manager to play a key role in the effective operational management of the school. This is an excellent opportunity for a professional with a background in contracts management, estates, facilities, or operations to work within a thriving and ambitious secondary school environment.

The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing contracts, suppliers, and operational services, ensuring value for money, compliance, and high standards across the school s non-teaching operations.

• Manage and monitor all school contracts, including cleaning, catering, maintenance, ICT, and other external service providers

• Lead procurement processes, contract renewals, tendering, and performance reviews

• Ensure compliance with statutory, financial, and health & safety requirements

• Oversee day-to-day operational services, including site, estates, and facilities management

• Work closely with senior leaders, finance teams, and external partners to support the smooth running of the school

• Monitor budgets related to contracts and operations, ensuring cost-effectiveness and best value

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with contractors and stakeholders

• Contribute to strategic planning for school operations and continuous improvement

• Proven experience in contracts management, operations management, facilities management, or a similar role

• Strong understanding of procurement, contract performance management, and compliance

• Excellent organisational, negotiation, and communication skills

• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently

• Experience working in an education or public sector environment (desirable, but not essential)

• A proactive, solution-focused approach with strong attention to detail

• A supportive and collaborative working environment

• The opportunity to make a real impact on the operational success of a high-performing school

• Professional development and training opportunities

• Competitive salary, commensurate with experience