Chief Operating Officer (COO) - School Group Operations

International Community Schools (ICS) is a leading educational group delivering high-quality international education across multiple branches in Abu Dhabi.

Chief Operating Officer (COO) – School Group Operations

Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Posted on 05/13/2026. Full-time.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee the overall operations of all school branches within the group
• Ensure operational efficiency, compliance, and consistency across academic and administrative functions
• Work closely with the CEO and senior leadership team to implement strategic initiatives and organizational goals
• Monitor and improve operational processes, policies, and systems
• Supervise and coordinate departments including Administration, HR, IT, Procurement, Facilities, Transportation, and School Operations
• Ensure compliance with ADEK regulations, policies, and educational standards
• Develop and implement performance metrics and operational KPIs
• Support school leaders in achieving operational and organizational excellence
• Manage budgets, resource allocation, and operational planning
• Lead large-scale projects, school expansions, technology initiatives, and process improvements
• Drive innovation, digital transformation, and operational modernization across the group
• Strengthen communication and collaboration between branches and headquarters
• Ensure high standards of health, safety, security, and risk management across all campuses

Additional Key Responsibilities

• Provide leadership, direction, and operational oversight to the HR, Procurement, Admissions, IT, Media, and Marketing departments across the group
• Develop and implement strategic plans, departmental goals, and operational initiatives in collaboration with the senior management team to support organizational growth and excellence
• Identify opportunities for process optimization, standardization, and automation across operational departments, implementing effective strategies to streamline workflows, improve productivity, and enhance overall organizational performance
• Foster strong cross‑departmental collaboration and communication to ensure seamless operations, efficient information sharing, and effective problem‑solving while promoting a positive work culture and maintaining strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders
• Allocate and manage resources, including budgets, personnel, and technology, to support the operational needs of each department, ensuring optimal utilization and adherence to the financial guidelines

Requirements

• Master’s Degree in Business Administration, Educational Leadership, Management, or related field
• Minimum 10–15 years of senior leadership or operational management experience
• Experience within the education sector or multi‑site organizations highly preferred
• Strong understanding of school operations, compliance, and organizational management
• Excellent leadership, communication, and decision‑making skills
• Proven ability to manage large teams and multiple branches
• Strong analytical, strategic planning, and problem‑solving abilities
• Experience in ERP systems, digital transformation, and operational optimization is an advantage
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced and dynamic environment

Preferred Qualities

• Visionary and strategic mindset
• Strong people management and leadership skills
• High level of professionalism and integrity
• Ability to lead organizational change and continuous improvement
• Strong stakeholder management and communication abilities

What We Offer

• Competitive salary package
• Professional and collaborative work environment
• Opportunity to lead operations for a growing educational group
• Career growth and leadership opportunities
• Dynamically innovative educational environment