School Operations Manager

£39,149.75 - £41,768.60 + well-being cash plan + pension scheme (LGPS) + additional Lift Schools benefits

Permanent, Full Time

37 hours per week, 52.14 weeks per year

May 2026 Start

We are looking for a School Operations Manager to join us in May 2026, this is a pivotal role for an individual who is highly organised, proactive and solutions focused, with the ability to lead and oversee all operational aspects of the school.

In this role, you will act as the vital link between the school and the regional team, ensuring the seamless coordination of all operational processes. You will report directly to the Principal, work closely with the Senior Leadership Team and play a key role in ensuring the school operates effectively and efficiently at all times.

You will:

• Lead all operational functions including HR liaison, finance processes, estates, IT coordination, compliance and front office management
• Line manage key operational staff, including the School Facilities Manager and administration team
• Act as the key link between the school and regional/central teams
• Lead on Health & Safety, GDPR compliance and statutory operational requirements
• Oversee lettings, school events, communications logistics and daily cover coordination
• Manage procurement processes and support effective budget administration
• Design and deliver staff induction and monitor completion of mandatory training

You will have :

• An operational background with experience across HR, finance, estates or IT
• Line management experience, with the ability to develop and support others
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects effectively
• A proactive, solution-focused approach and resilience in a fast-paced environment
• Clear communication skills and the ability to build trusted professional relationships
• The ability to maintain confidentiality and uphold high professional standards

About Lift Maltings

Lift Maltings is an 11-16 school based in Witham, Essex. Situated between the cities of Chelmsford and Colchester, the school has 900 students on roll and benefits from a modern, purpose-built site opened in 2011. With excellent transport links to London, our staff and students can take full advantage of the wealth of opportunities the capital provides. Free car parking facilities are available on site.

Visits to the school are warmly encouraged. For an informal discussion about the post, please contact Leanne Abbott-Jones, Principal, at

Closing date : 6th March 2026

Interview date : 13th March 2026

Who is Lift Schools?

We're a diverse and inclusive network of schools with one clear mission; to provide an excellent education to every child - in every classroom, every day. And we do this across each of our 58 schools. As with our students, we want our team to be empowered to do their best work, supported by the best leadership they've ever had.

We acknowledge and appreciate the exceptional efforts of everyone here in making this an incredible organisation.

We offer you:

• Comprehensive training: Access a wide range of developmental training to boost your career.
• Generous benefits: From your pension plan to healthcare and financial support, we've got you covered.
• Lifestyle perks: Enjoy discounted gym memberships, travel deals, and even electric vehicle incentives.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive an overwhelming response. All candidates are advised to refer to the job description and person specification before making an application.

Lift Schools are committed to ensuring the highest levels of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our pupils, and we expect all our people and volunteers to share this commitment. We adopt a fair and consistent recruitment process which is inline with Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance. This includes online checks for shortlisted candidates. All offers of employment are subject to an Enhanced DBS check, references, and where applicable, a prohibition from teaching check.

Lift Schools embraces diversity and promotes equality of opportunity. Job share, part-time and flexible working opportunities will be considered.

We are a Disability Confident Employer and there is a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.