Deputy Chief of Operations

This is an exciting and influential leadership role for an individual with strategic insight, expertise and presence to ensure our estates and wider operational services are robust and aligned to the future needs of our Trust and academies. We are looking for a dynamic and strategic leader who can build strong professional relationships with senior leaders of our academies, ensuring high quality operational delivery that enables Headteachers and staff to focus on achieving educational excellence. You will play a pivotal role in shaping the Trust estate’s vision and strategy, driving innovation through safe, secure and sustainable learning environments. We need from you A passion for delivering operational excellence that directly supports educational excellence Significant experience leading complex estates, operations or compliance functions across multiple sites The ability to build credibility and trust with senior leaders, influencing practice across the Trust Strong strategic leadership, planning and project management skills A commitment to partnership working, teamwork and high professional standards Excellent communication, interpersonal and relationship-management skills Drive, ambition and the ability to lead continuous improvement at scale Commitment to the mission, vision and values of BDAT We can offer you A supportive, forward-thinking Executive Team and a Trust committed to inclusive, values-led leadership. A higher varied and rewarding role working across multiple academies with diverse communities Opportunities to shape and direct Trust-wide operational strategy, systems and culture. High-quality professional development and leadership learning The chance to make measurable difference to the safety, sustainability and effectiveness of school environments and ultimately to the lives of children, staff and communities. Hours of work are flexible to meet the needs of the Trust but will not routinely exceed 37 hours per week. Occasional evening work is expected, and this role is office based. Employer: Bradford Diocesan Academies Trust Reporting to: Chief Finance and Operations Officer Accountable to: Chief Executive Officer Duration of Post: Permanent Probationary period Six months Salary: BDL17 - BDL23 (£76,772 - £88,951) Work Pattern: Full Time, All Year Round Closing date 9.00am 8th May 2026 Interview date 15th May 2026 Start date: 1st September 2026 If you would value an exploratory conversation, please contact Emma Williamson at Emma.Williamson@bdat-academies.org or by telephone on 01274 909120.