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Chief Operating Officer, FEA

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Formed in 2017 following the merger of two colleges, our client is the largest provider of education in the South East Midlands, with over 18,000 students passing through their doors each year. This is an exciting time for the Group as they embark on a bold new chapter to strengthen their impact across the region and improve the opportunities of those in their communities.
About the Role
Our client is 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.
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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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.
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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 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.


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Contact Information
Our client has appointed FE Associates to support them with this important appointment. Contact Jo.Johnson@fea.co.uk to discuss this exciting opportunity before applying.
Important Dates
- Closing date: 9am on Tuesday 18 August 2026
- Interview date: To be confirmed
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