Principal of Operations

Job Description

This well-established independent school in Cape Town has a proud legacy of academic excellence, values-driven education and community impact. With a history spanning more than a century, the school is known for nurturing its students to reach their full potential in a supportive and forward-thinking environment. 

What the Role Is About
As Principal of Operations, you will be a key member of the school’s executive leadership team, responsible for the strategic oversight of all non-academic operations. Working within a collaborative leadership structure alongside the academic principals, your focus will be ensuring the school’s operational excellence, financial sustainability and infrastructure efficiency by providing support its educational mission. 

 

Key Responsibilities
•    Oversee financial management, including budgeting, forecasting, and long-term sustainability
•    Provide strategic reporting and insights to the Board and key governance committees
•    Ensure compliance with financial, legal, and health & safety regulations
•    Lead the strategic direction and governance of all operational functions across the school
•    Manage shared services such as HR, IT, facilities, communications, and school enterprises
•    Drive operational strategy aligned with the school’s values, transformation goals, and long-term vision

 

What they’re Looking For
•    5–8+ years’ experience in a senior operational or management leadership role
•    Strong experience overseeing finance, people management and operational services
•    Proven ability to lead diverse teams and work within collaborative leadership structures
•    Commercial and operational acumen with sound decision-making ability
•    High emotional intelligence and strong relationship-building skills
•    Relevant tertiary qualification in Commerce, Business Administration, Public Management, Facilities Management

 

What’s In It for You
•    A rare opportunity to contribute to the leadership of a respected educational institution
•    Work within a values-driven, community-focused environment
•    Influence long-term strategy, infrastructure and operational sustainability
•    Lead meaningful initiatives that support both staff and student success

 

If you don’t hear back from us within 2 weeks of applying, please consider your application unsuccessful. But stay in touch — follow us online and keep an eye out for future opportunities.

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