The Bedford College Group – Chief Operating Officer

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Introduction

Formed in 2017 following the merger of Bedford College and Tresham College, The Bedford College Group is now the largest provider of education in the South East Midlands, with over 18,000 students passing through our doors each year. Today, the Group is made up of a family of colleges across Bedfordshire and Northamptonshire, including Bedford College, Central Bedfordshire College, and Tresham College, among others. This is an exciting time for the Group as we embark on a bold new chapter to strengthen our impact across the region and improve the opportunities of those in our communities.

We are seeking a Chief Operating Officer to provide strategic leadership and management across the Group’s business support services. Working closely with the CEO, Executive Team and Governors, you will help drive operational efficiency, continuous improvement and strategic growth. The role covers estates, IT, health and safety, project management, GDPR and catering, with a strong focus on student experience. You will have successful senior leadership experience in corporate services within a large complex organisation – preferably multi-site. Experience of working within internal and external regulatory frameworks, strategic and business planning and contributing to significant change programmes is essential. You should also have experience of working as part of an executive leadership team, alongside strong commercial awareness and the ability to translate strategy into operational plans.

We have appointed FE Associates to support us with this important appointment. Contact Jo.Johnston@fea.co.uk to discuss this exciting opportunity before applying.

How to apply Step 1: Complete the form below.

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Candidate Information. Step 2: Submitting your application.

Prior to submitting an application, interested parties should arrange an initial conversation with our FE Associates lead consultant, by emailing Jo.Johnston@fea.co.uk, to discuss the role before the closing date.

Once you have obtained the full information and had an informal discussion with the lead consultant, you must complete the online application form and equality and diversity form by the closing date deadline. Applications received after this time will not be considered.

Key dates for submitting your application:

• Closing date: 9am on Tuesday 18 August 2026
• Interview date: To be confirmed

Step 3: Ethnicity and diversity form.

Thank you for taking the time to complete your application for The Bedford College Group – Chief Operating Officer.

Our team will now review your application against the requirements of the role. Should your application be shortlisted, we will be in touch to arrange the next steps in the selection process.

If you have any questions in the meantime, please don’t hesitate to contact us at recruitment@fea.co.uk.

Step 3: Ethnicity and diversity form.

Thank you for completing the Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion form.

We appreciate your time and your support in helping us build a more inclusive workplace.