OverviewChief Operating Officer

Wandle Learning Trust, South London

From £115k depending on experience.

(A higher salary may be offered to those with significant relevant expertise).

Full time

We are seeking a strategic, forward-thinking leader with a proven track record in operational leadership to join our Executive Leadership Team and play a key role in shaping the future of our Trust. This is a rare opportunity to lead and influence across multiple operational areas—IT, Estates, HR, Finance, and Governance—ensuring our infrastructure and services enable outstanding educational outcomes.

Responsibilities

Lead the strategic development of operational strategies across the Trust, acting as Company Secretary, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory frameworks. Be an active member of the Executive Team, contributing to Trust-wide strategy.

Oversee capital planning and ensure sustainable, value-driven investment. Drive commercial and income-generating initiatives to support Trust growth. Line manage senior leaders including the Chief Financial Officer and operational teams.

Qualifications and experience

Proven senior leadership experience, ideally within the education or public sector, with responsibility for multiple operational functions.

Strong understanding of compliance, governance, and risk management. Experience of managing finance, HR, estates, IT, and health and safety.

Excellent communication, interpersonal, and project management skills. A collaborative and adaptable leadership style. High integrity and alignment with the Trust’s values. Resilience, enthusiasm, and a proactive mindset. A team player who inspires and supports others.

About Wandle Learning TrustWandle Learning Trust, a growing Multi Academy Trust based in South London, currently comprises two secondary schools and eight primary schools. The Trust also runs the Wandle Learning Partnership, which oversees our English, Maths and Teaching DfE Hubs, as well as our sector-leading phonics programme, Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised.

How to applyFor further details and to apply please visit our website at the following URL: http://wandlelearningtrust.org.uk/work-with-us

Contact and safeguarding informationFor an informal discussion about the role, please email recruitment@wandlelearningtrust.org.uk.

Closing Date: 1st October at Midday

Initial online interviews for shortlisted candidates are planned for 2nd October, with final interviews for selected candidates on 7th October.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check and a Children’s Barred List check.

The Wandle Learning Trust values the diversity of our students and is proud to inspire them through representative teaching and support staff. We aim to select all staff on merit, irrespective of race, sex, disability, age, gender reassignment, sexuality or other protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010.

The Academy welcomes applications from disabled candidates. If you have a disability, please indicate any adjustments we might make when applying in order to ensure that the shortlisting process is fair and meets your needs.

CVs are not accepted.

Wandle Learning Trust, South London

Dagnall Street

London

SW11 5DT

Contact number: 0204 516 1460

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