The Regional Chief Operating Officer Role will be responsible for working directly with the Regional School management teams, to reshape and drive the future direction of the Regional Schools. The role will work with the GDST Executive Team and School Management teams, to drive operational efficiency and continuous improvement. This role will also be pivotal in driving the strategic ambitions of the Regional Schools, which includes the acquisition and integration of additional schools and driving opportunities for diversifying revenue streams. Essential Skills and Experience • Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire and motivate teams. • Effective communicator and collaborator who can navigate the complex nature of a large organisation with many stakeholders • Bachelor’s degree in business or an industry relevant equivalent • At least 5 years in an operational school role as a senior manager, with demonstratable experience of positive engagement with employees at all levels. • Strong financial skills, including the ability to develop and interpret business plan. • A thorough understanding of business process, departments and goals is essential • Must have multi school experience. • Must have regional school experience. • Must have worked at Trust level. Key Attributes • Ambitious and Entrepreneurial: Proactive and eager to take on significant responsibility in a dynamic and fast-paced environment. • Emotionally Intelligent: Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and build trust with diverse internal and external stakeholders. • Commercial Judgement: Ability to evaluate opportunities strategically and make sound recommendations. • Attention to Detail: High standards of accuracy, with the ability to quality-check your own work and meet tight deadlines. Desirable Experience • Exposure to integration activities in previous roles. • Experience of building and developing new revenue streams and “product” opportunities • Experience of right sizing business units, to support the longer term financial sustainability • Ability to use data analysis and performance metrics to make informed decisions about strategy Key Relationships • Internal: GDTS CEO and CFO, Executive Leadership Team members, Heads of Schools and Directors of Finance & Operations, and Head Office teams (Finance, Procurement, Estates, HR and Legal). • External: School contractors (including Catering and Cleaning suppliers), School suppliers, Prospective Acquisition School Trustees, M&A advisors for growth activity Closing date: Thursday 20th March Interviews will be arranged as suitable candidates are identified, so early application is strongly advised.