Join Westcountry Schools Trust (WeST) as Chief Operating Officer

Westcountry Schools Trust (WeST) is a thriving family of 31 schools across the South West, with 8 secondaries and 23 primaries, united by one simple vision:
“Every child achieving in a great school.”

Each school retains its local identity while benefiting from the strength, expertise and collaboration of the wider Trust. Together, we share best practice, champion inclusivity and uphold values of Collaboration, Aspiration, Integrity, Compassion and Respect.

About the role

As Chief Operating Officer (COO), you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping WeST’s next chapter. Reporting to the CEO, you will:

• Lead and integrate all operational functions across the Trust: Estates, HR, IT, Governance, Comms, Marketing and Business Administration.
• Develop and deliver a unified operations strategy aligned with our school improvement priorities.
• Build high-performing, collaborative teams that deliver excellent, efficient and consistent services to every school.
• Strengthen our operational foundations so school leaders can focus on what matters most: teaching and learning.
• Be part of the Trust Executive Leadership Team, influencing strategic direction and driving positive change across WeST.

This is a rare opportunity to help steer a large, successful and values-driven Trust through a period of transformation and growth.

About you

We’re looking for a strategic and collaborative leader with:

• Senior leadership experience in education, the public sector or a large multi-site organisation.
• A strong track record in operational leadership across key service areas.
• Expertise in leading change, improving systems, and building relationships across complex organisations.
• Integrity, emotional intelligence, and a clear commitment to improving outcomes for children and young people. 

Why join WeST as Chief Operating Officer?

•  Influence the strategic future of one of the South West’s most respected Trusts.
•  Work with talented colleagues who share a strong moral purpose.
•  Lead meaningful change that directly supports great teaching and learning.
• Enjoy a collaborative, outward-looking and supportive professional culture. 

Procedures

All appointments are subject to pre-employment checks. That means:

• We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. A copy of our Child Protection Policy & Safeguarding Policy is attached.
• Your identity will be confirmed by sight of original, official documents such as a Birth Certificate, Passport etc. in line with the Asylum and Immigration Act 1996.
• Original documents relating to all the qualifications you have listed on your application form must be supplied.
• Your employment history will be thoroughly examined and clarification will be sought where there are gaps or other discrepancies arising from information provided either by you as the candidate or your referee.
• References will be used to check dates of employment and your relevant experience. A minimum of two written references will be taken up and these references will be requested before the interview.
• References should cover the last 3-5 years’ work history, as a minimum.
• An online search of shortlisted candidates will be conducted in accordance with Part Three ‘Safer Recruitment’ of Keeping Children Safe in Education statutory guidance.
• The identity of referees and information relating to disclosures will be verified.
• You will be required to provide details of any relevant unspent or spent convictions in accordance with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) (Amendment) Order 1986.
• An enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check will be requested. Please note that it is an offence to apply, offer or accept to do any work with children (paid or unpaid) if disqualified from working with children. Applicants will be challenged where inconsistencies exist. Please be aware that a firm offer of appointment will only be made after receipt and verification of all satisfactory checks. Westcountry Schools Trust will carry out these checks and should you fail these checks, our offer of employment will be withdrawn.