Operations Manager

Job Purpose: To lead and oversee all operations across the schools, ensuring safe, efficient and compliant school environments that support educational excellence. The role partners closely with School Principals and Academic Leadership to deliver operational excellence in support of the Education Sector's strategic objectives which includes the quality education, operational excellence, standardization, cost optimization, digital transformation and continuous improvement across the Education Sector.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic leadership for all non-academic operations across the International Schools and ensure consistent operational standards across all campuses.
• Oversee facilities, registrations, maintenance, security, housekeeping, transportation, health & safety, utilities, asset management and other operational support services.
• Develop and monitor registration operational process and help in digitalization of the process with parents/stakeholder’s satisfaction.
• Develop and monitor operational budgets, optimize costs, manage procurement activities, contracts and vendor performance.
• Ensure compliance with Ministry of Education requirements, accreditation standards, HSE regulations, Civil Defense requirements and Company policies.
• Lead operational projects including new school openings, expansions, refurbishments and business continuity planning.
• Develop sector-wide operational governance frameworks, policies, SOPs and service standards.
• Drive ESG and sustainability initiatives, including energy efficiency, environmental stewardship and resource optimization.
• Lead digital transformation and Smart Campus initiatives through technology, automation and data-driven operations.
• Develop executive operational dashboards and KPI reports for the Executive Committee and Board of Directors.
• Benchmark operational performance against leading international school groups and implement best practices.
• Lead, coach and develop operational teams while fostering a culture of accountability, innovation and continuous improvement.
• Build effective relationships with School Principals, Corporate Functions, government authorities, vendors and other key stakeholders.

Qualifications & Experience:

Education: Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, Engineering, Facilities Management or related discipline. MBA preferred.

Experience: 8–10 years' relevant experience with at least 5 years in a leadership role managing multi-site operations, within education sectors in the GCC.

Experience: at least 5 years in a leadership role managing International Schools.

Communication Skills : Bilingual (English and Arabic) Preferred

Professional Certifications (Preferred): PMP, NEBOSH, IOSH, CFM/FMP, Lean Six Sigma or equivalent.