Chief Operating Officer

‍Contract: Full time (37 hours), permanent position

Salary: £59,083-£63,560 (Connect Grade K 27-29)  

Start Date: January 2026

A brief context of Connect Academy Trust

• 9 values-based,inclusive and effective primary schools, across Newton Abbot, Plymouth and Torbay
• Recent and highly successful Ofsted inspections, with nearly all grades good or outstanding
• A people centred organisation of 570 staff,focussed on reducing gaps and improving the lives of 3300 children
• We have developedthe UK’s first Ocean Curriculum, to supplement the National Curriculum andensure all children understand the 7 Ocean Literacy Principles and the importanceof sustainability.

KeyRequirements & Duties

• To provide high quality strategic leadershipin all aspects of leading the IT, Facilities, HR and School Ops Teams
• Inspire a skilled and committed operations staffto deliver excellent services for Connect
• A natural leader, with a successful career (ideallyin HR or Facilities), who has high expectations and can bring about continuedimprovement across the whole operations team
• The post will be based in schools, with somehome-working available
• A commitment to learn from others and further develop excellent practice across the whole Trust
• Experience of working in a Multi-Academy Trust is preferred.

Why join us?

• Work with great children, staff and leaders in a beautiful parts of Devon
•  An exciting opportunity to lead a committed team
•  Full support and challenge from the Trust Executive Leadership Team and the Trust Board
• Competitive holiday allowance and local government pension scheme membership
• Steer the future operational direction of a growing, successful and values-based family of primary schools
• Relocation package of up to £3000, for those moving from outside of the area.

Please email admin@connectacademytrust.co.uk for a full application pack.

Closing Date: Thursday 27th November 25 (midday),

There will be opportunities to visit Connect on Wed 19/11 (Torbay) or Fri 21/11 (Plymouth).Contact us via email to book an appointment or arrange an informal conversation about the post.

An enhanced DBS and online checks will be made for the successful applicant before starting. Applications must be made via the online portal and CVs/similar will not be excepted.

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