Manager School Operations (July/Aug 2026 Start)-GEMS Cambridge International School, Abu Dhabi

Job Description

Strategic Leadership & School Operations

• Provide strategic advice and operational leadership to the Principal/CEO and Senior Leadership Team.
• Develop, implement, and monitor business strategies, policies, systems, processes, and operational improvement plans.
• Drive operational efficiencies, cost optimization, and value-for-money initiatives while maintaining high service standards.
• Ensure compliance with GEMS policies, local regulations, and government requirements.
• Lead environmental sustainability initiatives across the school.

Facilities & Site Management

• Oversee the maintenance, security, cleanliness, and effective operation of school buildings, grounds, and facilities.
• Manage preventive and reactive maintenance programmes, utilities, landscaping, accommodation, and site infrastructure.
• Monitor and manage outsourced service providers and contractor performance against agreed KPIs.
• Ensure effective use of school facilities and support community and commercial use opportunities.

Health, Safety & Compliance

• Act as the school's Health & Safety Coordinator and GEMS Incident Commander.
• Ensure full compliance with health, safety, environmental, fire, security, and safeguarding regulations.
• Lead risk assessments, emergency preparedness, business continuity, and disaster recovery planning.
• Maintain statutory records and ensure regular inspections, drills, and safety training are conducted.

Financial & Commercial Management

• Manage operational budgets and expenditure, ensuring effective financial planning and control.
• Support annual budgeting, forecasting, variance analysis, procurement, and audit requirements.
• Oversee purchasing, asset management, contract administration, and adherence to Delegation of Authority procedures.
• Utilise financial and benchmarking data to support informed decision-making.

Administration & Stakeholder Management

• Lead and oversee all administrative and support service functions across the school.
• Ensure effective deployment of resources and high-quality service delivery for students, staff, parents, and visitors.
• Maintain strong relationships with government authorities, corporate teams, contractors, and external stakeholders.

People Management

• Lead the recruitment, induction, performance management, professional development, and wellbeing of administrative and support staff.
• Ensure compliance with local labour laws and employment requirements.
• Promote a culture of accountability, collaboration, customer service, and continuous improvement.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum a BA, or equivalent (advanced) diploma / Certificate of School Business Management / Facilities Management / NEBOSH or IOSH

Required Experience

• At least 5 years’ experience in a similar role within a service oriented industry

Job-Specific Knowledge & Skills

• Fluent English communication skills, written and oral.
• Attention to detail with diligent follow up, and able to execute in a timely manner. - Skilled in multi-tasking and handling pressure.
• Organizational ability, of self and others.
• Forethought and forward planning (particularly as this relates to local Government compliance matters).
• Capable of influencing people and talented in networking with cultural sensitivity. - Good interpersonal skills
• Strong and consistent supervisory skills
• Commercial acumen
• Initiate effort and energy beyond the typical workday, where the tasks require additional commitment.
• GEMS Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all of its students and staff.
• A UK-enhanced DBS or equivalent police check is a pre-requisite for all appointments.