At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the strategy for student placements and build strong referral partnerships.
- Company: Exciting new Alternative Provision organisation with national ambitions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, annual bonus, and significant progression opportunities.
- Other info: Fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment with an ambitious leadership team.
- Why this job: Join at launch stage and shape the growth of a fast-growing education venture.
- Qualifications: Strong sector relationships and experience in generating referrals within education.
The predicted salary is between 65000 - 75000 £ per year.
Location: Flexible but focus areas are Midlands and North East/West
Salary: £65,000 - £75,000 + Annual Bonus
Do you know how to build trusted relationships that genuinely drive referrals? We are launching an ambitious new Alternative Provision organisation and are seeking a commercially minded, relationship-led Head of Placements & Referrals to help shape the growth of the business from day one. This is an opportunity to join at the very start of an exciting journey building referral partnerships, filling provisions, and becoming a key part of a fast-growing education venture with national ambitions.
The Opportunity
As Head of Placements & Referrals, you will lead the strategy for student placements and local authority engagement across new AP centres. You will be responsible for developing strong referral pipelines, building trusted partnerships with commissioners, schools, and local authorities, and ensuring provisions achieve sustainable occupancy growth. This role is ideal for someone who understands how the AP market works commercially and operationally. We are looking for someone who can open doors, build credibility quickly, and convert relationships into long-term partnerships.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Developing and leading the placements and referrals strategy
- Building relationships with local authorities, schools, SEND teams, and commissioners
- Driving occupancy across AP provisions
- Identifying areas of demand and supporting growth decisions
- Representing the organisation externally across the sector
- Working closely with operational leadership to ensure appropriate student placements
- Supporting site launches and local market engagement
- Creating referral pathways and partnership frameworks from scratch
About You
We are looking for someone with strong sector relationships, commercial awareness, and a track record of generating referrals within education. You may currently work in:
- Alternative Provisions
- Specialist Education
- Specialist Independent schools
You will bring:
- Experience securing referrals and managing placement pipelines
- Existing relationships with local authorities and education stakeholders
- A strong understanding of the AP landscape
- Confidence operating in a start-up or high-growth environment
- Excellent communication and influencing skills
- A proactive, entrepreneurial mindset
This is a role for someone who enjoys building networks, creating momentum, and making a visible impact.
Why Join?
- Join a brand-new venture at launch stage
- Genuine influence over growth strategy
- Opportunity to build a national referral network
- Fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment
- Significant progression opportunity as the organisation scales
- Work alongside an ambitious and experienced leadership team
Head of Placements and Referrals in England employer: Compass Associates
Join a pioneering Alternative Provision organisation at the forefront of educational innovation, where you will have the unique opportunity to shape growth strategies and build impactful referral networks from the ground up. With a focus on collaboration and entrepreneurial spirit, our flexible working environment in the Midlands and North East/West fosters a culture of trust and support, ensuring that you can thrive and progress alongside an experienced leadership team dedicated to making a meaningful difference in education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Placements and Referrals in England
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the education sector. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential contacts on LinkedIn. Building those relationships can lead to referrals that might just land you the job.
✨Tip Number 2
Be proactive! Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you. Research organisations that align with your goals and reach out directly. A well-timed email or call can make all the difference in getting your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your expertise! When you meet potential employers or partners, share your insights about the AP landscape and how you can help them grow. This not only demonstrates your knowledge but also positions you as a valuable asset.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’re always on the lookout for passionate individuals who can drive our mission forward. By applying directly, you’ll ensure your application gets the attention it deserves and you’ll be one step closer to joining our exciting journey.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Placements and Referrals in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in building relationships and generating referrals. We want to see how your background aligns with the role of Head of Placements & Referrals.
Showcase Your Network:Don’t be shy about mentioning your existing relationships with local authorities and education stakeholders. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so let us know how you can leverage your network!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your key achievements and skills stand out without unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Compass Associates
✨Know Your Market
Before the interview, dive deep into the Alternative Provision landscape. Understand the key players, current trends, and challenges. This knowledge will not only impress but also help you articulate how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Showcase Your Relationships
Be ready to discuss your existing relationships with local authorities, schools, and commissioners. Prepare specific examples of how you've built trust and converted those connections into successful partnerships in the past.
✨Demonstrate Commercial Awareness
Highlight your understanding of the commercial aspects of placements and referrals. Discuss strategies you've implemented that have driven occupancy growth and how you can apply similar tactics in this new role.
✨Emphasise Your Entrepreneurial Spirit
Since this is a start-up environment, showcase your proactive mindset. Share instances where you've taken initiative, created referral pathways, or launched projects from scratch. This will demonstrate your fit for a fast-paced, entrepreneurial setting.
