Operations manager

London Academy for Applied Technology (LAAT) Operations Manager Role Overview Reporting to the Director of Operations and Chief Financial Officer (CFO), with regular reporting to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), the Operations Manager will lead the Academy’s operational and financial activities. The role will work closely with the Academic Dean, Admissions Manager, Assessment Team, IT Manager, Student Support Manager and Finance Manager to ensure operational excellence, regulatory compliance and sustainable growth. Job Purpose The Operations Manager acts as the operational and financial steward of the Academy, ensuring robust financial management, budgetary control, operational efficiency, regulatory compliance and continuous improvement across all business functions. The role supports the CFO, Director of Operations and CEO through operational insight, financial analysis, risk management and performance reporting. Compliance & Regulatory Assurance The postholder will support compliance with regulatory framework and Conditions of Registration. Responsibilities include supporting equality of opportunity initiatives, student success measures, governance reporting, regulatory submissions, operational risk monitoring, audit preparation and ensuring institutional processes align with OfS expectations and Higher Education best practice. Financial Planning, Budgeting & Performance The Operations Manager will assess operational budgets, forecasting, financial performance monitoring, supplier management, procurement controls and management reporting. The role will maintain operational dashboards and provide data-driven recommendations to senior leadership. Operations Leadership The role will oversee administration, facilities coordination, IT coordination, admissions operations, student support infrastructure, business continuity planning and service delivery. The postholder will drive continuous improvement and ensure operational processes remain scalable and efficient. Governance, Risk & Compliance The Operations Manager will maintain operational policies, risk registers and standard operating procedures while supporting audits, inspections, GDPR compliance, safeguarding obligations, health and safety requirements and partner obligations. Qualifications A master’s degree in finance, Accounting, Financial Management, Business Finance or a closely related discipline is mandatory. Professional qualifications such as ACCA, ACA, CIMA, CFA or equivalent are desirable. Experience · 1-3 years’ experience in operations management, business operations, financial operations or institutional administration is essential. · Experience in Higher Education is highly desirable. · Candidates should demonstrate experience in budgeting, forecasting, Power BI reporting, governance support and operational performance management. Skills & Knowledge Strong financial acumen, advanced Excel skills, stakeholder management skills, XERO, operational leadership experience, understanding of Higher Education regulatory frameworks and excellent communication skills are essential.