Empresa:

Yael Schools Network

Descrição da Função

The Yael Schools Network is an ambitious Jewish international education network currently in pre-establishment phase. The first schools are scheduled to open in September 2027, followed by rapid scaling in the years thereafter.

• Planned locations include Limassol (Cyprus) and Lisbon (Portugal)
• All schools are grounded in the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework and a rich Jewish ethos.

Position Overview

The Director of Operations is a senior leadership role responsible for overseeing all non-academic operations of the school. They ensure that all operational functions support the school's educational mission, longterm strategy and annual goals. This includes leading cross-functional teams, managing the school's growth from the pre-opening phase through full operation and guaranteeing operational excellence.

The Director of Operations is under the Yael School Network and is required to follow and implement all network policies, standards, procedures and strategic guidelines. The role ensures full alignment with the network's philosophy, operational frameworks, quality expectations and compliance requirements.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Lead the entire non-educational project from inception to completion.
• Implement the network and strategic guidelines within the local context.
• Develop multi-year strategy and annual expansion plans.
• Define milestones, KPIs, budgeting frameworks and operational priorities.
• Ensure all operational systems align with network standards and expectations.

Finance, Budget & Business Planning

• Oversee financial operations including budgets, cash flow and multi-year forecasting.
• Supervise the Finance Manager and ensure compliance with network financial policies.
• Lead tuition modeling, enrollment projections and sustainability planning.
• Establish procurement processes ensuring value for money and transparency.
• Oversee vendor and contractor management.

Human Resources & People Management

• Manage all non-teaching staff and ensure alignment with network culture and values.
• Supervise the local HR Manager: hiring, onboarding, contracts, training, performance management.
• Partner with educational leadership to create cohesive organizational culture.
• Ensure HR practices comply with Portuguese law and network HR standards.

Operations & Administration

• Responsible for facilities, maintenance and cleaning operations.
• Oversee security, emergency preparedness, safety protocols and transportation.
• Manage IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, hardware, software and AV systems.
• Oversee logistics, food services, supplies and operational coordination.

Building Development & Construction Oversight

• Lead all construction-related processes, from planning to handover.
• Coordinate with architects, engineers, contractors, project managers and local authorities.
• Ensure compliance with regulations and network building guidelines.
• Deliver the building project on time, within budget and to required standards.

Legal, Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with Portuguese regulations, licensing, and labor laws.
• Oversee risk management strategies, insurance, audits, and documentation.
• Manage contracts, legal reviews, and legal compliance with network standards.

Community Operations & External Relations

• Implement the network's marketing and communication strategies.
• Oversee social media, branding, events, and public relations.
• Manage community outreach and parent communication.
• Promote the school and build strong community relationships.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Senior experience in operations management in education, hospitality, real estate or complex environments.
• Strong financial literacy and experience with budgeting and forecasting.
• Expertise in HR, facilities, procurement, legal compliance, and operational systems.
• Proven leadership in large-scale or multi-phase project management.
• Experience working within a distributed or multi-campus network (preferred).

Key Competencies

• Results Orientation - delivers outcomes effectively and efficiently.
• Prioritization & Execution - manages multiple projects and deadlines.
• Communication - strong written and verbal abilities.
• Empathy & Interpersonal Skills - builds trust and positive relationships.
• Mission & Values Alignment - committed to the school's identity and values.
• Trust & Accountability - reliable, transparent, and responsible.
• Team Player - collaborates well with leadership and staff.

What We Offer

• A rare opportunity to lead and shape a new dynamic international school from inception.
• A collaborative, innovative and values-driven working environment where staff and students are empowered to thrive.
• Professional development support and opportunities for growth.
• Competitive salary and comprehensive relocation package.

Observações

Lisboa (Portugal)