Head of School Operations - Facilities, Compliance, and Strategic Administration Job Vacancy in UAE Dubai
Role Summary
GEMS Education is hiring a Head of School Operations for its Dubai campus to oversee all non-academic functions including facilities management, administration, security, compliance, and commercial services. This strategic leadership role supports the Principal in achieving operational excellence across infrastructure, human capital, budgeting, and third-party vendor management while ensuring alignment with KHDA and UAE compliance. Candidates must bring senior-level operational experience and a strong track record in education or service-driven sectors.
Job Details
Job Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Industry: Education Management
Function: Plant / Facilities Management
Salary: 22000-27000 monthly (Market estimated)
Gender: Any
Candidate Nationality: Any
Candidate Current Location: Any
Job Type: Full Time
Position Overview
* Lead strategic planning, administration, and continuous improvement across school operations
* Ensure site safety, cleanliness, and maintenance of the school building and grounds
* Oversee HR and staff development of non-academic teams including support and admin staff
* Implement high-impact sustainability practices and promote responsible resource usage
* Guide budget planning, vendor contract negotiation, and operational cost optimization
* Ensure compliance with KHDA, Health and Safety, NEBOSH, and corporate directives
* Serve as a key decision-maker on risk management, critical incidents, and data security
Core Duties
* Manage daily operations of facilities, maintenance, transport, catering, and health services
* Direct building upkeep including BMS alerts, CCTV, landscaping, lighting, and utility systems
* Ensure all contracts (e.g., cleaning, school transport, accommodation) meet performance KPIs
* Supervise admin team scheduling, asset register accuracy, and after-hours school facility usage
* Develop and monitor operational KPIs to assess service quality and cost-effectiveness
* Liaise with GEMS Corporate and government authorities on all site-related compliance matters
* Encourage commercial use of facilities to increase community engagement and revenue
Candidate Requirements
* Minimum BA or equivalent diploma; advanced certifications in School Business or Facilities Management preferred
* NEBOSH or IOSH certification required for safety compliance
* 5+ years in a senior operations or facilities leadership role in education or similar sector
* Strong financial acumen with budgeting, procurement, and vendor management expertise
* Fluency in English and excellent written and verbal communication
* Skilled in supervision, multi-tasking, compliance coordination, and critical incident response
* Culturally aware with effective networking and interpersonal skills
Why Join Us
* Work with one of the world’s most respected private education providers
* Opportunity to lead operations at a flagship Dubai campus with cutting-edge infrastructure
* Tax-free salary, housing, airfare, medical insurance, and end-of-service gratuity
* Access to GEMS Rewards platform with discounts on lifestyle, travel, and dining
* Contribute to the strategic growth and operational excellence of future-ready education
About the Company
GEMS Education is a global leader in private education with over 60 years of delivering academic excellence and operational innovation. Our Dubai campuses are renowned for their commitment to sustainability, safety, and forward-thinking administration. Joining GEMS means being part of a global community shaping education for a better future.