Director of Operations

Purpose

The Director of School Operations (DSO) is a strategic partner to the Head of School (HofS) designing systems and structures to ensure the long-term success and advancement of AST. Reporting to the Head of School, the Director of School Operations serves as the key liaison between school staff and the essential service teams that support seamless school operations. The DSO responsibilities include involvement with human resources and personnel, systems and risk management, purchasing, event planning and management, student transportation, the food service program, and facilities. He or she works to make sure the organization operates successfully, meets contractual and regulatory requirements, and manages resources effectively.

The Director of School Operations is a full-time, salaried position with a 12-month work schedule.

Major Responsibilities

1. Oversee the school facilities, their development, and efficient use. Maintain regular contact with the Operations Team to oversee proper school maintenance and repairs, and monitor progress. Provide leadership and supervision to the manager and team, ensuring effective management of campus facilities and maintenance operations.
2. Oversee the execution of major building projects, including management of contractors, implementation of established financial controls, and clear communication with faculty, staff, and the Board’s facility committee.
3. Supervise all related operational elements and drive the efficiency forward to maintain a high level of work performance among the team. Manage and drive forward all operational needs with external providers, such as the catering company and the international shipping company, ensuring a high level of customer service.
4. Provide oversight of the HR practices, ensuring the effective management of all personnel-related matters. Ensure compliance with labor regulations and employment practices.
5. Assist in coordination with the CFO to maximize efficiency and transparency in processes for procurement and tuition collection.
6. Collaborating with the HofS and CFO, support the Facilities Manager in maintaining health and safety requirements across all operations to ensure the site is safe, secure, and running efficiently.
7. Support summer projects and the oversight of large deliveries, construction, and installations that are scheduled across the campus.
8. Ensure the School has an appropriate insurance program covering all key risks regarding which insurance is required and liaising with the CFO where necessary.
9. Advise on all health & safety matters, including measures in the event of emergencies. Lead risk assessments and coordinate emergency drills to ensure the school community is equipped to respond effectively to various security and safety situations.
10. Safeguard fixed assets of the school, ensuring all fixed assets are tagged, recorded, and accounted under fixed asset management procedures.
11. Ensure compliance with all legal, statutory, and administrative requirements and procedures related to health and safety, fire regulations, other licenses, buildings, etc. Under the direction of the HofS and CFO, communicate and negotiate with related government departments and/or authorities and get their support when there are any issues.
12. Support the health team in responding effectively to medical emergencies both on and off campus, promoting the health and well-being of students and staff.
13. Provide support to the CFO with the annual financial audit and all other audits and external organizational reviews as necessary.
14. In consultation with the HofS, oversee and manage staffing needs including selection, supervision, staff development and evaluation of all non-instructional organizational personnel.
15. Act as a key advisor to the Head of School and the Board’s Facility Committee, ensuring that the HofS is informed of the operations of the school and any problems which arise.
16. Other appropriate duties as assigned by the HofS.

Qualifications and Personal Attributes

Bachelor’s degree or above in Public Administration or Business Administration, Finance, Operations Management, Human Resources, or related field with at least eight years working experience in the field, among which five years in a leadership role.

AST serves and works with international communities; a willingness to listen to and collaborate with diverse groups is necessary. Fluency in oral and written English is required.

Experience in human resource management, employee benefits, and payroll procedures is a plus. Knowledge of not-for-profit accounting policies and practices is also highly beneficial. Professional certificate on facility management or relevant fields is a plus. Project management experience is desirable.

Compensation, Benefits and Hiring

Pay is competitive and commensurate with experience and qualifications. Benefits offered for full-time employees include health benefits, paid vacation, personal days, paid holidays, and retirement plan with employer contribution. Children will receive enrollment priority if the parent is a full-time employee at the time of enrollment.

Application Process

AST is currently accepting applications for this position. We will screen candidates continuously and offer opportunities to interview on a rolling basis.

To apply for this position, candidates must submit one PDF copy containing the following documents:

* A letter of application explaining their qualifications and interest in AST’s DSO position.
* An updated CV or resume.
* A one-page supplemental document with names, positions, and contact details for 3 professional references.

AST provides for robust protocols around safe hiring. All employees are required to undergo and pass a background check.