Are you a strategic, people-focused leader with a passion for delivering high-quality apprenticeship provision and driving sustainable organisational performance? We are recruiting on behalf of a well-established organisation delivering funded apprenticeship programmes to employers and learners across England. This is a senior leadership opportunity for an experienced operational leader to support the organisation’s continued growth, quality, and long-term impact.

The Role

Reporting to the Chief Executive and working closely with the senior leadership team, the Chief Operating Officer will take overall responsibility for the organisation’s operational delivery. You will ensure that apprenticeship provision is delivered effectively, consistently, and in line with funding, quality, and regulatory expectations, while supporting strategic growth and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and direction across operational teams involved in the delivery of apprenticeship programmes
• Support the translation of strategic priorities into effective operational activity
• Oversee day-to-day performance to ensure delivery is efficient, compliant, and learner-focused
• Contribute to continuous improvement of systems, processes, and ways of working
• Support quality assurance activity and readiness for external review and audit
• Work collaboratively with finance, people, and commercial teams to support sustainable growth
• Build positive working relationships with employers, partners, and external stakeholders
• Promote a culture of professionalism, inclusion, and accountability across the organisation

About You

You are an experienced senior leader with a strong understanding of funded apprenticeships and the wider skills landscape. You bring a calm, pragmatic approach to leadership and are comfortable balancing operational delivery with longer-term organisational goals.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Senior leadership experience within apprenticeships or funded skills provision
• Working knowledge of funding and regulatory requirements relevant to apprenticeship delivery
• Experience supporting operational performance and quality improvement
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills
• A collaborative leadership style with a focus on people development and outcomes