At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire a team of schools to achieve excellence and improve student outcomes.
- Company: Fylde Coast Academy Trust, a collaborative network of 10 schools.
- Benefits: Automatic pay progression, health support services, and discounts on transport and childcare.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education and make a real difference in students' lives.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in education and strong financial management skills.
- Other info: Join a supportive environment focused on continuous development and community impact.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Contract: Permanent
Closing date for applications: 9 February 2026, 9.00am
Shortlisting - Wednesday 11th February 2026
Recruitment Days - Wednesday 25th and Thursday 26th February 2026
Join Team FCAT
With the forthcoming retirement of our current CEO, FCAT is seeking an experienced individual with a proven track record in developing and sustaining organisational improvements to lead our trust.
Fylde Coast Academy Trust (FCAT) was established in 2012 and the trust is a team of 10 primary, secondary and all through schools who work collaboratively with our central services and school improvement teams. We have 6,000 students and around 900 employees with an annual turnover of £50m.
Our CEO will be accountable for day‐to‐day leadership across all aspects of the Trust. You will shape and drive our vision, values and strategic direction in partnership with the Board of Trustees, ensuring that our schools continue to develop and strive for excellence; to improve the life opportunities for our pupils and support the communities we serve.
Through expert leadership, you will promote a culture of accountability with strong moral purpose. Experience, strong knowledge and understanding of the educational landscape is crucial alongside excellent financial and resource management.
Our values of Excellence, Integrity and Resilience guide us to be the best we can be. Learners are at the heart of what we do and their outcomes and successes are what drive us.
Please refer to the attached Recruitment pack for full details.
Why choose FCAT?
- Ongoing support and development in your role
- Automatic pay progression annually for teaching and support staff
- 25% discount for FCAT in house Breakfast and After School Club provisions
- 24/7 access to free health support services, including an online GP
- Cycle to work scheme
- Free annual flu vaccine
- Blackpool Transport travel discount of 10%
- Free eye tests (*conditions apply)
How to apply
To apply for this post please visit our website and complete the online application form and equal opportunities form at www.fcat.org.uk/job-vacancies. Closing time and date for applications is 9am on Monday 9th February 2026 with shortlisting taking place on Wednesday 11th February 2026. Recruitment days are Wednesday 25th February and Thursday 26th February 2026.
For any questions regarding this vacancy or for an informal conversation with Kathleen Evison, Chair of Trustees, please contact Helen Livsey, Governance Lead, at the Fylde Coast Academy Trust via governance@fcat.org.uk.
The Fylde Coast Academy Trust is committed to equality of opportunity for all as well as safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all learners, staff and visitors. All staff are carefully selected using recruitment and selection procedures that comply with Keeping Children Safe in Education. Following shortlisting this may include an online search and following an offer an enhanced DBS clearance.
Chief Executive Officer - Fylde Coast Academy Trust in Burnley employer: Fylde Coast Academy Trust
Contact Detail:
Fylde Coast Academy Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Executive Officer - Fylde Coast Academy Trust in Burnley
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who know FCAT. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a recommendation.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the recruitment days! Brush up on your leadership skills and be ready to discuss how you can drive FCAT's vision and values. Show them you're not just a fit, but the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Research, research, research! Get to know FCAT inside out. Understand their schools, their challenges, and their successes. This will help you tailor your approach and impress during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining Team FCAT!
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Executive Officer - Fylde Coast Academy Trust in Burnley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully: Before you start writing, make sure to read the job description thoroughly. We want to see how your experience aligns with what FCAT is looking for, so highlight those relevant skills and experiences in your application.
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! We love it when candidates tailor their applications to reflect our values of Excellence, Integrity, and Resilience. Show us how you embody these values in your previous roles.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that get straight to the heart of your achievements and how they relate to the role of CEO at FCAT.
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to apply through our website at www.fcat.org.uk/job-vacancies. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Fylde Coast Academy Trust
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into Fylde Coast Academy Trust's mission, values, and recent developments. Familiarise yourself with their strategic goals and how your experience aligns with their vision of excellence, integrity, and resilience.
✨Showcase Leadership Experience
As a CEO candidate, be ready to discuss your previous leadership roles in detail. Prepare specific examples of how you've driven organisational improvements and fostered a culture of accountability. Highlight your understanding of the educational landscape and how it can benefit FCAT.
✨Engage with the Board
Since you'll be working closely with the Board of Trustees, think about questions you can ask them during the interview. This shows your interest in collaboration and helps you understand their expectations. It’s a great way to demonstrate your commitment to partnership.
✨Emphasise Community Impact
FCAT is focused on improving life opportunities for pupils and supporting communities. Be prepared to discuss how your leadership can enhance community engagement and student outcomes. Share any relevant initiatives you've led that had a positive impact on the community.