At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Church of England's education strategy and influence national policies.
- Company: The National Society for Education, a legacy organisation with over 200 years of impact.
- Benefits: Opportunity to shape national education and work with diverse stakeholders.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team committed to collaboration, inclusion, and excellence.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in education while upholding Christian values.
- Qualifications: Extensive senior leadership experience and deep knowledge of the education system.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 117800 € per year.
The National Society for Education (NS) is the Church of England’s national education office, with a proud legacy spanning over 200 years. The NS plays a pivotal role in enabling children, young people and adults to flourish through education that is Deeply Christian, serving the Common Good through our work supporting diocesan boards of education, who are the largest providers of schools in England and Wales, through influence at the most senior levels of government, and through a growing presence across Further and Higher Education.
Over the past decade the organisation has undergone significant growth and transformation, expanding its influence, reach and financial scale. Today, the NS operates in a complex and evolving education landscape shaped by changing government policy, heightened public accountability, increased devolution of policy to Wales, and wider social and geopolitical uncertainty. Within this context, the Church of England and Church in Wales remain major national voices in education, committed to collaboration, inclusion and excellence as we seek to serve the Class of 2040.
The NS is now seeking an exceptional leader to serve as Chief Executive and Chief Education Officer for the Church of England. This is a broad and influential role, combining organisational leadership with national system engagement and influence across dioceses, schools, FE, HE, government and a myriad of other partners across England and Wales. Reporting to the Chair and Council, the postholder will lead strategy, operations, culture and performance; and act as the Church of England’s senior education voice with government, regulators and key stakeholders.
The successful candidate will bring substantial senior leadership experience gained in complex, multi‑stakeholder environments, alongside deep knowledge of the education system and public policies of England and Wales. They will demonstrate personal gravitas, sound judgement and the ability to lead with clarity through contested and high‑profile issues. Exceptional communication skills, political and relational acuity, and a track record of building collaborative and engaged teams and partnerships will be essential.
As a public leader formed by a corrigible and inspiring Christian faith, the Chief Executive will be motivated by Christian values, a vision for the mission of Church schools, and committed to enabling institutions and people to flourish.
This role offers a rare opportunity to shape the future of education nationally with the distinct and hope-filled voice of the Church, building on a strong legacy while leading confidently into the next phase of impact and service.
It is an occupational requirement in accordance with schedule 9 paragraph 1 of the Equality Act for the holder of this role to be a practising Christian.
Chief Executive and Chief Education Officer employer: Church of England
The National Society for Education (NS) is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead and influence the future of education in England and Wales through a deeply Christian ethos. With a strong commitment to collaboration, inclusion, and excellence, NS fosters a supportive work culture that prioritises employee growth and development, allowing leaders to thrive in a complex educational landscape. Joining NS means being part of a legacy that values meaningful impact and service to the community, making it an inspiring place to work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Executive and Chief Education Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those involved with the Church of England. Attend events, engage in discussions, and don’t be shy about sharing your aspirations. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities!
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your leadership skills! Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or initiatives in complex environments. Be ready to discuss these during interviews, as they’ll want to see your ability to navigate challenges and inspire others.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay informed about current trends in education policy! Being knowledgeable about the evolving landscape will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role. Subscribe to relevant newsletters or follow key influencers in the field.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got a streamlined process that makes it easy for you to showcase your skills and experience. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining us at the National Society for Education. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Executive and Chief Education Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Audience:Before you start writing, take a moment to understand who you're addressing. The National Society for Education has a rich history and a specific mission, so make sure your application reflects an understanding of their values and goals.
Showcase Your Experience:This role requires substantial senior leadership experience, so don’t hold back! Highlight your past roles and achievements that align with the responsibilities of Chief Executive and Chief Education Officer. Use clear examples to demonstrate your impact in complex environments.
Be Authentic:Let your personality shine through! The NS is looking for someone with personal gravitas and sound judgement. Share your journey and how your Christian values have shaped your leadership style and vision for education.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s super easy to navigate!
How to prepare for a job interview at Church of England
✨Know Your Legacy
Familiarise yourself with the rich history and mission of the National Society for Education. Understanding their 200-year legacy will help you articulate how your vision aligns with their goals, especially in serving the Common Good.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Experience
Prepare to discuss your substantial senior leadership experience in complex environments. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've navigated multi-stakeholder situations and led teams through high-profile challenges.
✨Showcase Communication Skills
Exceptional communication is key for this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, especially on contentious issues. Consider how you can convey your ideas in a way that resonates with diverse audiences, including government and educational stakeholders.
✨Emphasise Christian Values
Since this role requires a practising Christian, be prepared to discuss how your faith informs your leadership style and decision-making. Reflect on how you can embody the values of collaboration, inclusion, and excellence in your approach to education.
