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- 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: Annual 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, Full time
Closing date for applications: 9am, Monday 9th February 2026
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 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
✨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 about the numbers but also about the learners.
✨Tip Number 3
Research, research, research! Get to know FCAT’s schools, their challenges, and successes. This will help you tailor your approach and demonstrate your commitment to improving life opportunities for their pupils.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. 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
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.
Showcase Your Leadership Experience: As a CEO, your leadership skills are crucial. Use your application to share specific examples of how you've led teams or organisations to success. We love seeing real-life stories that demonstrate your impact!
Be Authentic and Personal: Let your personality shine through! We’re looking for someone who fits our values of Excellence, Integrity, and Resilience. Share your passion for education and how it drives you to make a difference in the lives of students and communities.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it helps us keep everything organised for the shortlisting process.
How to prepare for a job interview at Fylde Coast Academy Trust
✨Know Your Trust
Before the interview, dive deep into the Fylde Coast Academy Trust's mission, values, and recent achievements. Understanding their strategic direction will help you align your vision with theirs, showing that you're not just a candidate but a potential leader who truly gets what they stand for.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a CEO, your leadership style is crucial. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've driven organisational improvements in the past. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses, making it clear how your approach can benefit FCAT.
✨Financial Acumen is Key
Given the financial responsibilities of the role, brush up on your financial management skills. Be ready to discuss how you've managed budgets and resources effectively in previous roles. Highlight any experience you have with educational funding or resource allocation to demonstrate your suitability.
✨Engage with the Community
FCAT values community engagement, so think about how you've fostered relationships with stakeholders in the past. Prepare to share ideas on how you would enhance community involvement within the trust, ensuring that learners' needs are at the forefront of your leadership.
