Main Purpose of the Role

The Director of perations and Finance will play a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth and effective running of the Trust’s business functions, supporting the provision of high-quality education for autistic children and young people. The postholder will lead and develop the small team of business professionals, providing strategic oversight and operational leadership in finance, estates, health and safety, compliance, HR, IT, and administration across the Trust’s schools. The role will ensure that robust systems and processes underpin the Trust’s educational mission, enabling teaching and education support staff to focus on pupil outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and management for all operational and financial activities across the Trust, ensuring compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements.
• Lead the Trust’s financial planning, budgeting, reporting and audit processes, working closely with the Executive Headteacher and Trustees to ensure sustainability and value for money.
• Through the Premises Manager, oversee the management and development of Trust facilities, including premises management, health and safety, capital projects, and site security.
• Through the HR Manager, oversee the management and development of the HR service, including the development of HR policies and practice that make the Spa Education Trust an employer of choice.
• Ensure the effective management of support services, including HR, IT, procurement, contracts, and administration.
• Advise the Executive Headteacher and Trustees on all operational and financial matters, providing timely and accurate reports to inform decision-making.
• Identify opportunities to maximise the Trust’s resources and take advantage of its location, including seeking new funding streams and developing partnerships.
• Lead, motivate, and develop the business support team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and high performance.
• Ensure robust risk management procedures are in place and maintained for all operational areas.
• Promote and uphold the values and ethos of the Spa Education Trust in all aspects of the role.

Relationships

• Work as a key member of the Trust’s central team, contributing to overall strategy and development.
• Liaise with external agencies, suppliers, local authorities, and other stakeholders to support Trust operations.
• Support and advise school leaders and staff in relation to operational and financial matters.