Chief Operating Officer (COO) – University Launch & Operations

Chief Operating Officer (COO) – University Launch & Operations

Location: Bahrain
Job Type: Full-Time, Executive Leadership
Start Date: Immediate
Industry: Higher Education / University Establishment

About the Role

We are establishing a new international university in Bahrain in collaboration with a leading UK institution. We are now seeking a highly experienced Chief Operating Officer (COO) to lead all operational aspects of launching and preparing the university for opening.

The COO will serve as the principal executive responsible for turning the approved academic vision into a fully functioning institution—overseeing campus development, operational systems, regulatory readiness, staffing, compliance, procurement, and all administrative functions required for a successful launch.

This is a hands-on, strategic role suited for a high-capacity leader who thrives in a startup environment and has deep experience in higher education operations.

Key ResponsibilitiesOperational Leadership & Launch Execution

• Lead the full operational setup of the university from construction readiness to first day of classes.
• Develop and execute the university’s operational roadmap, including timelines, budgets, risk assessments, and launch milestones.
• Oversee procurement and installation of furniture, technology, lab equipment, and university infrastructure.
• Coordinate with engineering, contractors, and facility partners to ensure campus readiness.

Regulatory & Compliance

• Manage licensing, regulatory submissions, and compliance requirements with relevant Bahraini authorities.
• Ensure alignment with quality assurance and operational standards of the UK partner university.
• Develop internal policies and procedures across all administrative areas.

People & Organizational Development

• Build the initial organizational structure and lead recruitment for key administrative and support staff.
• Develop HR systems, onboarding processes, performance management, and staff development frameworks.
• Foster a positive, student-centered culture informed by international best practices.

Operational Systems & Administration

• Establish and oversee operational departments:
• Admissions operations
• IT and digital systems
• Facilities management
• Procurement
• Student services
• Finance and administrative support
• Lead implementation of key enterprise systems (SIS, HR systems, LMS in collaboration with Academic Affairs).

Strategic & Financial Oversight

• Prepare and monitor operational budgets in coordination with the Executive Team.
• Support long-term financial planning and sustainability targets.
• Oversee vendor contracts, service agreements, and external partnerships.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with Academic Affairs, Marketing & Admissions, Finance, and the UK partner university to ensure seamless launch readiness.
• Serve as a member of the Executive Team, contributing to strategic planning and decision-making.

Qualifications & ExperienceEssential

• Proven experience in a senior operational leadership role within a university, college, or major educational institution.
• Demonstrated track record in launching, expanding, or transforming large-scale education operations.
• Strong knowledge of academic compliance, quality assurance frameworks, and higher-education regulations.
• Experience overseeing construction projects, facilities, or IT/administrative system implementations.
• Ability to lead diverse teams and build operational structures from the ground up.
• Exceptional project management, communication, and analytical skills.

Preferred

• Experience working within or collaborating with UK universities or international branch campuses.
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements in the GCC, especially Bahrain.
• Master’s degree in Business Administration, Higher Education Administration, or a related field.

Key Competencies

• Strategic and operational leadership
• High accountability and ownership
• Strong decision-making and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to thrive in a startup/launch environment
• Excellent stakeholder management
• Cultural sensitivity and ability to work in international contexts

What We Offer

• Opportunity to be part of building a landmark higher-education institution in Bahrain.
• Executive-level influence with autonomy to shape all operational aspects.
• Competitive compensation package.
• Dynamic and collaborative working environment.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your relevant experience and why you are suited for this role.

Job Type: Full-time