Chief Finance and Operations Officer, George Watson's College.
Location – Edinburgh
Salary –£120,000 - £140,000
George Watson's College is seeking an outstanding Chief Finance and Operations Officer to join its senior leadership team at a pivotal moment in its development.
As the largest single-campus school in Europe, Watson's is a complex, values-led organisation with significant scale, diverse operations and ambitious plans for the future. The Chief Finance and Operations Officer will provide strategic and operational leadership across all non-academic functions, ensuring the school is financially resilient, operationally excellent and well positioned for sustainable growth.
Reporting directly to the Principal, the postholder will have responsibility for Finance, Estates, Facilities, People, Enterprises, Health and Safety, Governance and Technology. Working closely with the Senior Leadership Team and Governing Council, you will play a central role in shaping strategy, overseeing delivery and enabling the school's long-term success.
We are looking for a commercially-minded, growth-oriented leader who combines strong financial credibility with broad operational experience. You will be comfortable operating at Board level, adept at managing risk and governance, and confident leading large, multidisciplinary teams in a complex environment.
While experience in education may be helpful, it is not essential; we welcome candidates from a wide range of sectors who can bring fresh thinking, sound judgement and a collaborative leadership style.
This is a rare opportunity to make a lasting impact within one of Europe's leading independent schools, in a role that offers genuine influence, challenge and scope. In return, you will join a values-driven organisation with a strong sense of purpose, an engaged community and ambitious plans for the future.
To apply for the post, please send a tailored CV and covering letter to by midnight on Wednesday March 11, 2026. The covering letter should be no more than two pages of A4 and should outline your relevant experience, leadership approach and motivation for applying.
If you would like a confidential, informal discussion about the role, please contact LHH on or email the above address.