Guardian Jobs
Chief Operating Officer, FEA

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Our Client
Our client is committed to delivering an excellent, inclusive and safe experience for all learners. With a clear ‘learner first’ culture, their strategic direction focuses on continuous improvement, inclusion throughout the student journey and positive outcomes for every student. They are proud of their open, collaborative culture where visible and approachable leaders inspire trust and teamwork.
Role Overview
Our client is seeking a Chief Operating Officer to act as a trusted strategic advisor to the Principal & Chief Executive Officer and the Corporation, providing professional leadership across Finance, Human Resources, Health & Safety, Funding and Property Services. The postholder will help shape the College’s strategic direction, strengthen financial resilience and operational effectiveness and lead on governance, commercial strategy, sustainability and major capital investment programmes.
Reasons to use Rodeo
I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
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Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
See breakdownIt searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
The role requires membership of a relevant professional body, such as ICAEW, ACCA, CIMA or CIPFA and a qualification to degree level or equivalent.


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Application Process
Our client has appointed FE Associates to support them with this important appointment. 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.
Important Dates
- Closing date: Monday 5 October 2026
- Interview date: Wednesday 21 October 2026
“It took my CV and asked me questions relevant to understanding what kind of jobs to suggest for me. Suggestions were almost perfect. Jobs were exactly what I’ve been looking for.”
Jessica, London
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