Director of Finance and Operations

Bedford Modern School (BMS) is a thriving, independent co-educational day school which educates over 1200 students aged between 7 and 18. Part of the Harpur Trust, one of the UK’s largest charities, BMS combines more than 250 years of tradition with a modern outlook, and is an unpretentious community where students flourish as individuals.

BMS now seeks an exceptional strategic, financial, and operational leader as Director of Finance & Operations.  Reporting to the Head, David Payne, the new Director of Finance & Operations has an exciting opportunity to contribute to a dynamic and highly successful school and play a critical role in helping to position it for the future.

The appointed candidate will bring substantial generalist leadership and management experience with a track record of success in managing complex, multi-disciplinary and sizeable support functions. An accomplished strategic leader, the new Director of Finance & Operations will combine the entrepreneurial flair to drive the commercial development of BMS with the interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence to contribute as an integral part of the Leadership Team. A strong personal ethos of service and a collaborative, team-oriented leadership style are all essential.

Existing school experience is not a prerequisite, and candidates from a wide range of commercial, charitable, private-sector and public-sector backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

To apply, please visit https://plusportal.perrettlaver.com/ quoting reference ‘7969’. The deadline for applications is 08:30am BST on Thursday 14 August 2025. Candidates are encouraged to apply immediately as interviews will take place on a rolling basis.

The Harpur Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.

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