We are seeking applications from accomplished and strategic leaders within the GDST to join Putney High School as Director of Finance and Operations. This is an exciting opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of one of London’s leading independent day schools for girls, and to contribute at the heart of a dynamic and forward-thinking leadership team.
This is a key senior leadership post, reporting directly to the Head and forming part of the school’s Senior Leadership Team. The DFO is responsible for the leadership and strategic oversight of all non-teaching operations, including finance and accounting, estates and facilities, HR, administration, compliance, health and safety, catering, cleaning, and educational visits.
The successful candidate will play a central role in supporting the delivery of the school’s strategic plan, acting as a key partner to the Head and a visible member of the school’s senior team. This is a highly collaborative, school-facing role with oversight of the daily operation of the school and a remit that combines strategic input, operational excellence, and compliance assurance.
Key responsibilities include:
- Managing all aspects of school finance, including budget preparation, management accounts, strategic forecasting and oversight of payroll, in partnership with the GDST Finance team
- Leading the estates and facilities function, including capital projects, maintenance, H&S compliance, and security
- Line managing the school’s HR & Compliance Manager and overseeing safer recruitment, induction, SCR and HR policy compliance in line with ISI and Trust requirements
- Ensuring effective delivery of administration, catering, cleaning and school transport operations
- Contributing to inspection readiness, leading on H&S and compliance, and acting as Asset Information Owner for GDPR
- Supporting the Head in developing and delivering business cases for major developments
- Identifying opportunities for business development, lettings, and non-fee income generation
We are looking for someone who:
- Has proven senior leadership experience as a GDST DFO or equivalent, with strong working knowledge of our systems, policies and compliance frameworks
- Brings financial expertise and commercial awareness, with the ability to lead business planning and operational delivery in a complex school setting
- Can confidently lead and develop high-performing operational teams
- Is collaborative, responsive and solutions-focused, with the ability to support the Head in delivering strategic school priorities
- Has a strong understanding of teaching and learning environments and how operational functions support excellent educational outcomes
This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced leader who is looking for a fresh challenge within the Trust, and who would enjoy contributing to the success of a dynamic, high-achieving London school.
How to Apply
To express interest in the role, please submit your CV and a short covering letter outlining your suitability for the role.
Application deadline: 9am, Friday 4th July
Interviews to be held: 7th & 8th July
Safeguarding Statement:
Putney High School and the GDST are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.
At Putney High School, we embrace and celebrate difference. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant based on their age, disability, gender, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation. To ensure this, all positions are subject to blind shortlisting.