Director of Operations

Director of Operations

The Director of Operations (DOO) is a newly-created role to support the Chief Operating Officer (COO) and transform the operational functions of John Lyon School. As a key member of the School’s senior management team, at an exciting time in the School’s development, the DOO will take on three key functions across both the Senior and Prep School sites, as well as the extensive playing fields:

  • Reporting to the COO to lead provision of Health, Safety & Security; Facilities; Grounds; Catering and Transport across the entire School;
  • Reporting to the Prep School Headmaster to lead the day-to-day provision of all support activity at the Quainton Hall site; and
  • To deputise for the COO when required.

The DOO will manage all the necessary support functions to facilitate the delivery of outstanding education in a safe environment where pupils and staff can flourish. An instinctive understanding of what top-end service looks like will be required, and the successful candidate will possess the skills and experience to deliver this in a school setting. Strong but empathetic leadership, with meticulous attention to detail and the strength of character to insist on the highest possible standards will be required. The role requires flexibility and an analytical mind, able to find ways through, over or around problems, as well as strong leadership to manage staff and encourage teamwork through collaborative relationships across the School community.

The DOO will also be the natural first point of contact for all support issues at the Quainton Hall Prep site. This will require close cooperation with the Prep School senior management team and will see the successful candidate split their time between the Senior and Prep school sites. The role will also need to have an appreciation of the wider support functions, including Finance, HR, ICT, Administration and Marketing, allowing the DOO to run with local issues and work with the other Support Team Directors to ensure delivery across all the School sites.

Competitive salary for a senior role, dependent on skills and experience

Hours: 40 hours per week, year-round

The School’s benefits include:

  • Complimentary lunch during term-time
  • Fees remission for children of staff
  • Use of the School’s Sports Centre (including swimming pool) at designated times
  • Discount membership to Harrow School’s Golf Club
  • Cycle to Work Scheme
  • Commitment to professional development

For further information and to apply please refer to the job description, person specification and application forms at the bottom of the page.


Completed applications should be returned to [email protected]

Please be aware that CVs alone will not be accepted.

Closing date for applications: 12:00pm on Friday 9 December 2022.

Longlisting and telephone interviews in week commencing Monday 12 December 2022

Shortlisting and final interviews in week commencing Monday 12 December 2022
Role to start from 4 January 2023 (or asap after DBS received)


The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Applicants will be required to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.

As a provider of employment and education, we value the diversity of our staff and students. We are committed to providing a fair, equitable and mutually supportive learning and working environment for our students and staff.