Head of Operations

ROLE PURPOSE:At MetaGedu, we are committed to establishing a team focused on delivering exceptional apprenticeship and training programs. Our goal is to empower our learners to achieve success through comprehensive teaching, coaching, and mentoring.As we continue to grow, we are in search of a seasoned, strategic leader to drive our vision as the Head of Operations. This is a full-time position based at our Central Birmingham offices.The Head of Operations will play a pivotal role in guiding the strategic planning, development, and execution of MetaGedu Apprenticeship Standards and government-funded training initiatives. This role is essential in ensuring the achievement of high standards, impactful outcomes, and strong commercial performance, while also meeting the requirements set by the Department for Education and ESFA/EQA. As part of the Senior Management Team, you will be instrumental in leading the effective operation of MetaGedu Apprenticeships. Collaborating across departments, you will help create the synergies necessary to fulfil our organisational goals. Your leadership will be key in fostering a well-integrated, efficient, and goal-oriented team, driving the achievement of our priorities, objectives, and desired outcomes.ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES:Strategic Leadership & DevelopmentEstablish and grow the apprenticeship function by setting clear expectations, fostering a positive team culture, and providing support.Develop strategies to drive business growth, improve quality, and ensure exceptional learner management.Lead the design and development of apprenticeship training, working with the Quality team and engaging employers.Operational ManagementOversee the delivery of the apprenticeship service, managing contracts to meet annual targets.Lead and manage a team of Apprenticeship Delivery Coaches to ensure programme quality and compliance with funding and Ofsted standards.Align coach capacity and caseloads with the sales pipeline and learners approaching EPA.Manage data collection and reporting to meet targets, reduce costs, and enhance customer service.Quality Assurance & ComplianceCollaborate with the Head of Quality on self-assessment and drive your team’s quality improvement plan.Implement evaluation and quality frameworks to meet Ofsted standards and aim for an Outstanding rating.Prepare for external evaluations, audits, and quality assurance to maintain high standards and completion rates.Stakeholder Engagement & Relationship ManagementDevelop and maintain senior-level relationships with funding bodies, industry groups, and networks to promote MetaGedu and enhance collaboration.Manage employer relationships through your teams, ensuring contract compliance, effective communication, and prioritising learner welfare.Financial & Workforce PlanningContribute to organisational planning to ensure MetaGedu’s activities meet employer needs.Manage staff and staffing models to meet financial targets, ensuring timely workforce planning and recruitment.Safeguarding & ComplianceMaintain up-to-date qualifications and knowledge to fulfil the safeguarding role.Ensure all programmes and processes meet employer and learner needs from development through delivery.Market Analysis & Opportunity IdentificationStay informed on apprenticeship and education market trends, maintaining professional knowledge and ensuring ongoing staff training and compliance.Identify market opportunities and present business cases to the Senior Leadership Team for growth and innovation.Collaboration & Cross-Functional IntegrationWork with cross-functional teams to improve tools, systems, and reporting processes, enhancing operational efficiency.ESSENTIAL SKILLS AND EXPERIENCEProven experience in apprenticeship management, covering operational responsibilities.Strong background in leading and managing coaches and trainers to meet employer expectations and support learners.Experience in overseeing apprenticeship delivery across various sectors with accountability for quality and outcomes.In-depth knowledge of apprenticeship standards, AAF, Ofsted, ESFA, DfE guidelines, and funding models.Demonstrable success in meeting contractual KPIs and regulatory requirements.Strategic leadership experience in an apprenticeship or educational setting.Expertise in managing budgets, workforce planning, and achieving financial targets.Excellent leadership, team-building, and motivational skills.Proficient in data management, reporting, and preparing for evaluations and audits.Strong communication and relationship-building abilities.Commitment to continuous professional development.SAFER RECRUITMENT STATEMENTMetaGedu Apprenticeships Ltd are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults. All posts are subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service certificate (DBS), Social Media Checks (Education) and any other checks deemed relevant to the role. Our safeguarding policy can be found at https://metagedu.io/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Safeguarding-Policy.pdf and data protection policy https://metagedu.io/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Data-Protection-Retention-Policy.pdfWe are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of their race, sex, disabilities, and religions/beliefs, sexual orientation or age.