Chief Operating Officer

Overview We are seeking a strategic, hands-on, and experienced Chief Operating Officer (COO) to oversee and lead the day-to-day operations of our school campuses in Singapore and support the upcoming expansion into Japan. This pivotal role requires a multi-disciplinary leader with proven expertise in school operations, finance, HR, compliance, and strategic execution. The COO will be instrumental in driving operational excellence, ensuring compliance, and enabling sustainable growth across all campuses. Responsibilities 1. Operations Management Lead, supervise, and optimize daily operations across the Bukit Merah and Changi campuses. Support the setup, launch, and ongoing operations of the Japan campus. Oversee school facilities, maintenance, safety, and vendor management. Manage the academic calendar, extracurricular activities (ECA), and camps. 2. Purchasing and Procurement Oversee procurement for all campuses, including vendor selection, contract negotiation, and cost control. Ensure procurement policies align with best practices and budgetary guidelines. 3. Human Resources and Recruitment Oversee HR processes including recruitment, onboarding, performance management, and employee relations. Ensure HR policies comply with local employment regulations (MOM) and are effectively implemented. Foster a positive workplace culture and support staff engagement and grievance resolution. 4. Financial Oversight Partner with the Finance team to oversee the school’s financial health, including annual budgets, rolling forecasts, and long-term financial planning for all campuses. Monitor tuition fee income, scholarships, and financial aid allocations to ensure revenue sustainability and alignment with enrolment targets. Oversee capital expenditure, campus development investments, and resource allocation, ensuring cost efficiency without compromising academic quality or student experience. Implement strong internal controls, financial policies, and reporting standards that meet statutory and regulatory requirements. Provide accurate and timely financial reporting (monthly income statements, balance sheets, and variance analyses) for the Senior Leadership Team and Board of Directors. Ensure compliance with MOE/Committee for Private Education (CPE) requirements, including annual audited accounts and license renewal submissions. Drive cost-efficiency initiatives while safeguarding high service standards in teaching, learning, and student services. Advise the Board and CEO on financial risks, opportunities, and funding strategies to support school growth and overseas expansion. 5. Licensing and Compliance Ensure all operations comply with PEI licensing and audit requirements. Prepare and manage submissions for new licenses, renewals, classroom registrations, and inspections. Liaise with relevant authorities on regulatory matters. 6. Admissions and Student Services Oversee the admissions team in managing enrolments, student records, and parent communications. Ensure admissions targets are established and achieved. Oversee development and implementation of student-related policies (welfare, attendance, and discipline). 7. Strategic Reporting and Governance Provide monthly and quarterly operational reports to the Board and Senior Leadership Team. Contribute to strategic planning and the execution of growth initiatives. Participate in Board meetings and assist with governance documentation. 8. Stakeholder & Team Management Lead, motivate, and develop a cross-functional operations team across multiple campuses. Act as the primary point of contact for internal departments and external partners on operational matters. 9. Legal and Director Duties Serve as a Registered Director of the entity and fulfil all statutory duties and obligations. Serve as a registered School Manager with relevant authorities, representing the school in compliance and accountability matters. Qualifications and Requirements Strong financial acumen with proven experience in budgeting, costing, reporting, and financial control. Possess Chartered Accountant Credentials Proficiency with technology platforms. Minimum 10 years of relevant experience in operations or general management, preferably within the education or services sector. Highly preferred those who have direct experience in private school in Singapore. Strong knowledge of Singapore’s regulatory frameworks (MOM, MOE, IRAS, ACRA, SSG). Proven leadership, stakeholder management, and team development skills. Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving abilities. Experience managing multi-site operations is highly desirable. Willingness to travel to support overseas expansion as required. #J-18808-Ljbffr