At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead national education policy and professional development initiatives.
- Company: Join a leading organisation shaping education in the UK.
- Benefits: Generous salary, flexible working, 33 days leave, and professional development.
- Other info: Hybrid role with opportunities for travel and personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on education policy and leadership across the UK.
- Qualifications: Experience in education policy and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 101586 - 101586 £ per year.
£101,586 per annum + excellent benefits
Homebased (Hybrid) with easy access to Leicester HQ
Full-Time Permanent
Shape national education policy. Influence the debate. Lead transformational change. Make A Difference.
This is a rare opportunity for an exceptional senior leader to join our executive team and play a pivotal role in shaping education policy and professional leadership at a national level. You will lead our work with policymakers and influencers, develop clear and authoritative policy positions, and drive the growth of our professional development and membership offer. You will also deputise for the General Secretary, representing the organisation in the media and at senior forums.
Why This Role Matters
This position provides strategic leadership across policy, professional development and membership growth - ensuring ASCL is a "go-to" choice for leaders across the sector. You will be leading our work to influence national education policy, building strong relationships with government, policymakers and key stakeholders. Representing the organisation nationally, including in the media and at major events, this position bridges strategy and delivery, playing a key role in delivering ASCL's mission: "Speaking on behalf of members. Acting on behalf of children and young people."
Who We're Looking For
We're seeking a confident and strategic senior leader with experience in education policy and at board level. You will bring:
- Deep understanding of the education and membership organisation landscape
- Excellent communication and influencing skills
- Credibility and influence with senior stakeholders
- Strong commercial awareness and strategic capability
- The judgement, discretion and resilience required for a high-profile role
What You'll Be Doing
- Leading our work to influence national education policy, building strong relationships with government, policymakers and key stakeholders.
- Developing and communicating clear, evidence-based policy positions that shape sector debate.
- Providing strategic leadership across policy, professional development and membership growth.
- Leading and inspiring senior teams, setting direction, goals and performance expectations.
- Representing the organisation at national events, conferences and in the media.
- Deputising for the General Secretary as required, including high-profile external representation.
What We Offer
ASCL is an equal opportunities employer and offers a very generous package of benefits including:
- Flexible working - a combination of working from home, attending external meetings and events and being in-person at our Leicester HQ as necessary.
- Generous leave: 33 days annual leave + bank holidays.
- Pension: 9% employer contribution.
- Professional development: Ongoing training and peer support.
- Expenses covered: Travel, home-working allowance, and equipment provided.
- Inclusive culture: We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and communities.
This is a hybrid role HQ, with a combination of working from home and being in-person at our Leicester HQ when necessary and travel across the UK as required. IT and telephone equipment will be provided.
If you're ready to lead a team that makes a real difference to education leaders and organisations across the UK, we would love to hear from you.
INTERESTED?
The closing date for application is 4pm on Monday 6 July 2026. Interviews will be held in-person, at ASCL HQ in Leicester on Tuesday 14 July 2026. Start date: Tuesday 1 September 2026 but dependent on individual circumstances.
Deputy General Secretary: Director of Policy and Professional Development in Leicester employer: ASCL
ASCL is an exceptional employer that offers a unique opportunity for senior leaders to shape national education policy while enjoying a flexible hybrid working environment. With a generous benefits package, including 33 days of annual leave and a strong commitment to professional development, ASCL fosters an inclusive culture that values diverse backgrounds and perspectives, making it an ideal place for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the education sector.
