OPERATIONS MANAGER

BASED AT:     BEST House, Shefford

SALARY/GRADE RANGE: NJC Scale CBG12 (points 35-40)

REPORTING TO:    Chief Operating Officer

The Bedfordshire Schools Trust (BEST) is a multi-academy trust providing exceptional education across our community of 11 schools and five nurseries. Since forming in 2016, we have grown significantly into one of the largest single employers in Central Bedfordshire. We now educate more than 8,000 children across the area, from nursery age to advanced level study.  It is our aim to grow the BEST in everyone, and everything we do is driven by our values, but our aims can only be achieved if we recruit, retain and develop the highest quality workforce – and we want those we employ to be valued in the workplace. 

Due to the retirement of the current post holder, we are looking to appoint an experienced and highly skilled Operations Manager.  This is a pivotal role within the Central Team and is designed for a professional who thrives on complexity and is eager to shape the operational landscape of our Trust.  You will be the “engine room” of our organisation overseeing a diverse portfolio which includes estates management, health and safety, procurement and HR.  You will be the key operational link between Central Services and school leaders, ensuring our academies can focus on delivering outstanding education while meeting all statutory and regulatory requirements.

We are looking for a “solution finder” – someone who can navigate the nuances of the education sector whilst bringing commercial-grade operational discipline.

If you have a proven track record in operations management then we would like to hear from you.

Closing date: midday, Wednesday 4th February 2026

Interview date:     Tuesday 10th February 2026

For enquiries about this role, please contact Mark Liddiard (mliddiard@bestacademies.org.uk )

All applications should be made online via MyNewTerm.

We are committed to the safeguarding and promotion of children's welfare and offers of employment are subject to DBS clearance and two satisfactory references.

This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020.

 Strictly no agencies.