About us

The Department for Education, Children and Young People (DECYP) is committed to ensuring every child and young person in Tasmania is known, safe, well, and learning. As part of a system reform initiative, DECYP is trialling Multi-School Organisations (MSO) as an innovative approach to rethinking education service delivery. The MSO is a family of schools under shared governance and leadership. This model aims to strengthen school improvement through shared leadership, strategic alignment, and operational autonomy. Schools in an MSO act collectively and have tight alignment across curriculum, teaching and operations, while maintaining their individual identities and community ties.

The first MSO (MSO 1) commenced in 2026, and we are now looking for a Head of Operations to join the leadership team of MSO 2 ahead of the launch in 2027.

This is an exciting opportunity to be on the forefront of this new and innovative education service delivery model that seeks to lift student outcomes by strengthening support for principals and teachers, reducing administrative burden, and allowing schools to focus more on learning and wellbeing — together.

About the role

This role will see you provide strategic leadership and expert advice to develop, implement and improve the Multi-School Organisation’s (MSO) operational strategy, leveraging innovative methodologies and evidence-based planning to support improved educational outcomes.

As a key member of the leadership team, you will work collaboratively to align systems, processes, and culture within policy and regulatory frameworks to strengthen effectiveness and support growth. You will deliver high-quality, centralised operational services that enable school leaders to focus on improving teaching and learning. You will also drive a strategic approach to operations and growth, ensuring consistency, scalability, and equity across the school network.

Working closely with the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) you will align operational strategy with educational priorities to improve student outcomes while balancing the diverse needs of schools.

Who we are looking for

We are seeking a seasoned strategic and operational leader with a strong track record in complex, multi-site and/or regulated environments. Ideally, you’ll have

• Senior leadership experience with accountability across operations, finance, people, facilities, governance, corporate services, and/or transformation
• Proven capability in and knowledge of financial management, procurement, delegations, risk oversight, and compliance, including budget planning, resource allocation, and navigating regulatory, legislative compliance, and governance frameworks
• Experience building and improving systems in dynamic, reform-driven environments
• Pragmatic, hands-on leadership style with a collaborative approach
• Proven ability to lead change, foster innovation, and drive continuous improvement
• Highly developed stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to work effectively across diverse internal and external groups
• Driven by purpose and are motivated by making a positive difference.

What we are offering

• Work alongside a passionate and expert team, including a CEO who has already operated in this model
• Three (3) years fixed term contract whilst the program is in its trial phase, ideally starting in November 2026 (negotiable)
• We offer tailored support, including coaching and upskilling, to help you succeed and grow in the role
• You will be based in one of our schools that will be part of MSO 2 in the north of the State - Ravenswood Heights Primary School, St Leonards Primary School or Youngtown Primary School.
• A vehicle will be provided for work-related purposes only
• Flexible working arrangements; including start/end times and WFH days, and part-time options
• Access to three (3) additional leave days (Christmas shutdown days) and purchased leave scheme 
• Access to Wellbeing Connect program and Fitness Passport

Conditions of employment

• Salary $145,439 to $155,221 per annum + super
• Award and Classification: Tasmanian State Service Award, General Stream, Band 8
• Employment Type: Fixed term
• Period of Appointment: 3 years
• Region: North

Essential requirements

• Ability to obtain or have a current Registration to Work with Vulnerable People (Employment Status) – Tasmania.

Desirable requirements

• You hold a current driver’s licence

For more information, please refer to the Statement of Duties - Head of Operations.

How to apply

In your application, please include up-to-date resume and short form application (maximum 2 pages) outlining your experience, skills and knowledge as they relate to the role.

Applications should be submitted online by 11.30pm AEDT on the advertised closing date.

Information for Applicants (PDF)

Contact

We strongly encourage applicants to contact us for an overview of the role. For a confidential discussion about the role, contact Carole Jans-Cooremans, Talent Acquisition Consultant on 03 6166 0308 or talentteam@decyp.tas.gov.au.

Applicants should be aware that for twelve (12) months from the date of publication, this selection process may be used to fill any subsequent full-time or part-time vacancies in accordance with Employment Direction 1.