ISP Business Operational Manager Role Profile

Purpose of Role

The Business Operational Manager for the Learning and Innovation Team at International Schools Partnership (ISP) is pivotal in leading operational management of learning and innovation initiatives, and executing a portfolio of projects and programs. The manager is expected to support the organization's mission by ensuring efficient and effective operations within the team while managing the day-to-day business operations. The Business Operational Manager will collaborate closely with various stakeholders, including regional directors of learning, school leadership, educators, administrators, and senior management, to streamline processes, implement best practices, that supports the growth and development of ISP.

ISP Principles

Begin with our children and students. Our children and students are at the heart of what we do. Simply, their success is our success. Wellbeing and safety are both essential for learners and learning. Therefore, we are consistent in identifying potential safeguarding and Health & Safety issues and acting and following up on all concerns appropriately.

Treat everyone with care and respect. We look after one another, embrace similarities and differences and promote the well-being of self and others.

Operate effectively. We focus relentlessly on the things that are most important and will make the most difference. We apply school policies and procedures and embody the shared ideas of our community.

Are financially responsible. We make financial choices carefully based on the needs of the children, students and our schools.

Learn continuously. Getting better is what drives us. We positively engage with personal and professional development and school improvement.

ISP Business Operational Manager Key Responsibilities

1   Operational Management:

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the Learning and Innovation Team at ISP, ensuring smooth functioning, timely execution, and adherence to established policies and procedures.
• Develop and implement operational strategies, workflows, and systems to optimize team performance and enhance productivity within ISP's international schools.
• Monitor and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) to identify areas for improvement and take proactive measures to address operational challenges.

2   Project and Program Management:

• Oversee the prioritisaiton and management of a portfolio of learning and innovation projects and programs across ISP's international schools, including planning, execution, monitoring, and evaluation, risk mitigation and benefits realisation.
• Maintain high visibility across all L&I projects and programmes in order to support prioritisation and removal of blockers.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define project objectives, deliverables, and timelines, ensuring successful project outcomes.
• Monitor project budgets, resource allocation, and timelines, adjusting as necessary to ensure project success within ISP.

3   Stakeholder Engagement and Collaboration:

• Establish strong working relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including educators, administrators, and senior management at ISP and its international schools.
• Collaborate with various departments within ISP to identify learning and innovation needs, develop strategies, and implement initiatives that align with the organization's goals.
• Act as a liaison between the Learning and Innovation Team and other departments, facilitating effective communication and coordination within ISP e.g., IT, HR and finance functions.

4   Process Improvement and Innovation:

• Identify opportunities for process improvement within the Learning and Innovation Team, streamlining workflows, and eliminating bottlenecks,
• Integrate technologies and tools into the team's operations to enhance learning experiences and increase operational efficiency across ISP's international schools.

5   Performance Monitoring and Reporting:

• Establish metrics and performance indicators to track the effectiveness and impact of learning and innovation initiatives within ISP's international schools. In partnership with the director and regional directors of Learning.
• Prepare regular reports and presentations on the team's performance, highlighting achievements, challenges, and recommendations for improvement within ISP.
• Collaborate with data and business analysts and the data cloud team within ISP to gather and analyze relevant data, providing actionable insights to inform decision-making processes.

Skills, Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., business administration, education, innovation management).
• Proven experience in operational management, project management, or a related field, preferably within an educational or learning context.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and inspire cross-functional teams within a dynamic, diverse and rapidly expanding organisation.
• Certification in Project Management (APMG, PMP, PRINCE2, Agile, or similar) is desirable. •
• Experience in an agile environment or with agile project delivery methods is a plus. •
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and inspire cross-functional teams.
• Excellent organizational and problem-solving abilities, with a keen attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with stakeholders at all levels within ISP and its international schools.
• Knowledge of the educational sector desirable but may have a background in other sectors or industries.
• Expertise in project management tools and software.
• Analytical mindset and the ability to use data to drive decision-making and continuous improvement within ISP.
• The Business Operational Manager will play a pivotal role in streamlining operations, fostering collaboration, and ensuring the successful execution of projects and programs within ISP.
• This role involves managing a complex portfolio of projects and programs and working closely with various stakeholders to ensure alignment with ISP's goals and objectives.

ISP Commitment to Safeguarding Principles

ISP is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All post holders are subject to appropriate vetting procedures and satisfactory Criminal Background Checks or equivalent covering the previous 10 years’ employment history.

ISP Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

ISP is committed to strengthening our inclusive culture by identifying, hiring, developing, and retaining high-performing teammates regardless of gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation and gender expression, age, disability status, neurodivergence, socio-economic background or other demographic characteristics. Candidates who share our vision and principles and are interested in contributing to the success of ISP through this role are strongly encouraged to apply.