Chief Operating Officer

Overview

This is an outstanding opportunity for an inspiring, collegiate and ambitious leader to drive the business functions of Whitgift. Whitgift is a leading independent day and boarding school, offering world‑class education to over 1,500 boys aged 10 to 18. Located within 45 acres of magnificent parkland in South Croydon, London, it is part of the John Whitgift Foundation.

The School provides an excellent all‑around education, with a strong focus on academic achievement, personal development and co‑curricular involvement within a culturally, economically and ethnically diverse community. With a turnover of £40M, Whitgift is a substantial organisation.

Responsibilities

• Act as the School’s commercial adviser, shaping and implementing the next phase of its strategic development, including further international expansion.
• Lead a diverse team of support staff and be responsible for finance, estates, operations, catering, cleaning and commercial activities.
• Ensure continued operational and financial success by managing resources, delivering results and guiding the organisation through complex challenges.

Qualifications

• Proven track record of executive leadership, commercial success and financial control.
• Experience balancing the needs of large, complex organisations and delivering strategic initiatives.
• Outstanding communication skills and the ability to navigate complex relationships, execute initiatives and deliver projects.
• Ambition, rigour, energy, resilience, inclusive and authentic leadership, and exceptional interpersonal abilities.
• Demonstrated empathy with independent education and a commitment to the School’s aims and ethos.

Benefits

An attractive remuneration package, including fee remission, will be available for the successful candidate.

Legal & Equality Statement

Whitgift School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and youth and to promoting diversity and inclusion in schools. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020. The safeguarding responsibilities of this post are detailed in the candidate information brochure.

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