Deputy Chief of Operations - Bradford Diocesan Academies Trust

Kirklees Council are advertising this role on behalf of Bradford Diocesan Academies Trust

Start date: Tuesday 1st September 2026

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.

BDAT is looking to appoint an exceptional Deputy Chief of Operations to lead, develop and direct operational activity across our Trust. 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 leaning 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.

If you would value an exploratory conversation, please contact Emma Williamson at Emma.Williamson@bdat-academies.org or by telephone on 01274 909120.

Applications can be submitted online using the My New Term portal via Vacancies - Bradford Diocesan Academies Trust (bdat-academies.org)

Closing date: 9am, Friday 8th May 2026

Shortlisting: Monday 11th May 2026

Interview date: Friday 15th May 2026

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all our children and we require all our staff to share this commitment. This post is subject to an enhanced criminal records check via the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).

Please see our Safeguarding and Child Protection policy on the BDAT website BDAT Policies - Bradford Diocesan Academies Trust (bdat-academies.org)