Deputy Operations Manager - Student Accommodation

Job Description Deputy Operations Manager - Student AccommodationNationwideRole PurposeThe Deputy Operations Manager plays a critical senior leadership role within the student accommodation business, acting as the operational lead for day-to-day performance across the estate. Reporting directly to the Head of Operations, this role provides hands-on leadership and oversight across compliance, mobilisation, people management, training, project delivery and operational implementation.The post holder will ensure that operational standards are consistently delivered across all sites, systems and processes are embedded effectively, teams are trained and supported, and new acquisitions and mobilisations are delivered on time, on budget and in line with brand, regulatory and commercial expectations.This role is both strategic and operational, bridging senior leadership intent with front-line execution and providing resilience, structure and delivery capacity across a growing portfolio.Key ResponsibilitiesOperational Leadership & Day-to-Day ControlProvide senior operational oversight across the student accommodation portfolio, ensuring consistent standards, policies and procedures are applied at site level.Act as the primary escalation point for complex operational issues, ensuring swift resolution and minimal disruption.Support the Head of Operations in driving performance against key operational KPIs including occupancy, debt management, compliance, customer satisfaction and cost control.Maintain operational rhythm through structured reporting, site reviews, audits and performance meetings.Deputise for the Head of Operations as required.Compliance, Governance & RiskHold day-to-day accountability for operational compliance across the estate, including health & safety, fire safety, statutory inspections and regulatory obligations.Ensure all sites operate in line with ANUK / National Codes, internal policies and statutory requirements.Oversee compliance tracking, audits and action plans, ensuring risks are identified, managed and closed out in a timely manner.Support incident management, investigations and root-cause analysis where required.Work closely with FM partners, contractors and site teams to ensure compliance responsibilities are clearly understood and delivered.Mobilisation, Implementation & ProjectsLead and coordinate the operational mobilisation of new sites, acquisitions and management transitions.Own mobilisation plans, checklists, timelines and readiness reviews, ensuring robust and risk-managed handover into operation.Oversee the implementation of new systems, processes and platforms, ensuring effective adoption across operational teams.Support refurbishment, improvement and lifecycle projects, ensuring operational impacts are planned, communicated and managed.Act as the operational interface between development, asset management, contractors and site teams during mobilisation and project phases.People Leadership, Training & CapabilityProvide direct leadership and operational support to Area Managers, General Managers and site leadership teams, as agreed with the Head of Operations.Ensure clear role expectations, accountability and performance standards across operational teams.Lead the development and delivery of operational training frameworks, induction programmes and competency development.Support performance management, succession planning and talent development across the operational structure.Promote a strong culture of accountability, professionalism, safety and resident focus.Commercial & Performance SupportSupport commercial performance through strong operational delivery, customer experience and re-booking execution.Work closely with sales, marketing and finance teams to ensure operational activity supports occupancy and income targets.Monitor operational expenditure, contractor performance and value for money.Identify inefficiencies, risks and opportunities for continuous improvement across the portfolio.Stakeholder & Brand RepresentationAct as a senior operational representative of the brand with internal and external stakeholders including universities, partners, contractors and regulators.Ensure brand standards and service expectations are embedded consistently across all sites.Support the Head of Operations in the ongoing development and scaling of the student accommodation brand.Measures of SuccessThe Deputy Head of Operations will be measured against clearly defined KPIs, which will also inform the annual bonus scheme. Success will be demonstrated through:Consistent achievement of operational KPIs across the portfolioHigh levels of compliance, audit performance and risk closureSuccessful delivery of mobilisations and projects to agreed timelines and standardsImproved operational capability, training completion and leadership depthPositive resident experience and contribution to re-booking and retentionStrong engagement, performance and stability within operational teamsFirst 12 Months - What Success Looks LikeWithin the first 12 months, the Deputy Head of Operations will have:Established strong operational control and visibility across the estateEmbedded clear compliance governance, reporting and escalation frameworksSuccessfully led or supported mobilisations and system implementationsBuilt strong, effective working relationships with Area Managers, site teams and central functionsDelivered measurable improvements in consistency, compliance and operational performanceCreated clear operational structures, training pathways and accountability frameworksBecome a trusted deputy to the Head of Operations, providing confidence, continuity and leadership capacityPerson SpecificationEssentialSignificant senior operational experience within student accommodation, PBSA or multi-site residential operationsProven experience managing compliance, health & safety and operational riskExperience leading mobilisation, transition or implementation projectsStrong people leadership and performance management capabilityExcellent organisational, communication and stakeholder management skillsCommercially aware with strong reporting and problem-solving abilityDesirableExperience supporting portfolio growth or brand developmentFamiliarity with student accommodation management and compliance systemsExperience working within a fast-growth or transformation environmentJBRP1_UKTJ

Created: 2026-01-18