At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead governance and compliance, ensuring effective decision-making across our schools.
- Company: Join the Diocese of Chelmsford Vine Schools Trust, a supportive and collaborative environment.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, professional development, and a strong commitment to work-life balance.
- Other info: Opportunity for career progression and a focus on equality, diversity, and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in education by enhancing governance and supporting school improvement.
- Qualifications: Experience in governance and compliance, with strong organisational and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
This is a key leadership role, providing expert advice and assurance to the CEO, Trustees and senior leaders, ensuring our governance arrangements are compliant, effective and aligned to best practice. You will play a vital role in supporting high-quality decision‑making and maintaining strong standards of accountability and transparency across our schools.
Responsibilities
- Act as the Trust's principal adviser on governance, compliance and regulatory matters
- Lead the development and continuous improvement of governance frameworks and structures
- Serve as Governance Professional and clerk to the Trust Board and committees
- Ensure compliance with company law, charity law and the Academy Trust Handbook
- Oversee governance systems, policies and statutory returns
- Lead on recruitment, induction and development of Trustees and Governors
- Support risk management, audit processes and governance assurance across the Trust
Qualifications
- Has significant experience in governance, compliance or company secretarial roles
- Has advised Boards or senior leaders at a strategic level
- Demonstrates excellent organisational, analytical and communication skills
- Has a strong understanding of governance frameworks and regulatory requirements
- Is highly professional, proactive and committed to high standards of integrity and accountability
Experience within the education or multi‑academy trust sector is desirable.
Additional Information
- The role requires flexibility, including attendance at some evening meetings
- Travel between Trust schools will be required
Benefits
- A strong commitment to work‑life balance, with flexible working and family‑friendly policies
- Extensive professional development opportunities, including tailored CPD and career progression pathways
- A collaborative and supportive culture across our network of schools, where best practice is shared
- A clear commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, ensuring all staff feel valued and supported
- Strong leadership support, with open communication and opportunities to contribute to decision‑making
- A comprehensive wellbeing offer, including access to counselling, GP services and wellbeing programmes
- Generous pension scheme
- Employee benefits and discounts scheme, supporting everyday savings and lifestyle wellbeing
- Recognition and appreciation programmes, celebrating staff contribution and success
About the Trust
The Diocese of Chelmsford Vine Schools Trust is a growing family of Church of England primary schools, committed to delivering high‑quality education rooted in strong Christian values. We work collaboratively to support school improvement, develop inspiring leadership and ensure every child flourishes academically, socially and spiritually. At the heart of our work is our core value of "empowering all to flourish" - guiding our approach to education, leadership and governance. We are committed to creating environments where pupils, staff and communities are supported to reach their full potential within a culture of care, inclusion and excellence.
Head of Governance in Chelmsford employer: Diocese of Chelmsford
The Diocese of Chelmsford Vine Schools Trust is an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative and supportive culture that prioritises work-life balance and professional development. With a strong commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, employees are valued and encouraged to contribute to meaningful decision-making, all while being part of a mission-driven organisation dedicated to empowering every child to flourish academically and spiritually.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Governance in Chelmsford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those involved in governance. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a recommendation.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on governance frameworks and compliance regulations. We recommend having a few examples ready that showcase your experience in advising Boards and leading governance improvements.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll be part of a community that values collaboration and support in governance.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Governance in Chelmsford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the key responsibilities of the Head of Governance role. We want to see how you can bring your expertise in governance and compliance to our Trust.
Showcase Your Skills:Use specific examples to demonstrate your organisational, analytical, and communication skills. We love seeing how you've successfully advised Boards or senior leaders in the past, so don’t hold back!
Be Professional and Proactive:We’re looking for someone who embodies professionalism and a proactive approach. Make sure your application reflects your commitment to high standards of integrity and accountability, as these are crucial for this role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity within our Trust.
How to prepare for a job interview at Diocese of Chelmsford
✨Know Your Governance Stuff
Make sure you brush up on governance frameworks and regulatory requirements before the interview. Familiarise yourself with the Academy Trust Handbook and any recent changes in company or charity law. This will show that you're not just knowledgeable but also proactive about staying updated.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
Prepare examples of how you've advised Boards or senior leaders at a strategic level. Think about specific situations where your input led to high-quality decision-making. This will demonstrate your ability to contribute meaningfully to the Trust's governance.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Since this role requires excellent communication skills, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. You might want to rehearse answers to common interview questions, focusing on how you can maintain strong standards of accountability and transparency across schools.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Values
The Vine Schools Trust values inclusion and empowerment. Be ready to discuss how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to creating an environment where everyone flourishes. This will resonate well with the interviewers and show that you're a good cultural fit.
