Commercial Director in Royal Tunbridge Wells

A new role, a 32-acre estate and a blank page: Holmewood House is an independent prep school of 400+ pupils aged 3–13, set in 32 acres of Kent countryside just outside Tunbridge Wells. The school is in a strong financial position and has already laid the foundations for commercial income. What it hasn't had, until now, is someone whose entire job is to build on them.

The role involves reporting to the Head and Bursar and sitting on the Senior Leadership Team, with two connected missions:

• Commercial: Grow non-fee income from 6% to a minimum of 20% of revenues within five years through high-value, multi-year partnerships, lettings, holiday courses, conferences, residential camps, sponsorship and naming rights.
• Fundraising: Create and lead the school's first structured in-house development programme, anchored by the capital campaign for a new pre-prep and innovation centre.

You will lead the Lettings & Courses Manager, Swim School Manager and theatre staff; build pricing, booking and contract frameworks from scratch; act as the bridge between commercial clients and the estates, catering and housekeeping teams; and report on ROI to SLT and the Board of Governors.

About you:

• At least 5 years in business development, partnership development or fundraising.
• A proven track record of securing and closing high-value partnerships or major gifts.
• Commercially sharp, with real experience of generating income from physical assets and spaces.
• A self-starter with the entrepreneurial drive to build a function, not inherit one.
• Experience leading and managing a team.
• Strong people skills: this is a stakeholder-rich environment where relationships do the heavy lifting.
• Experience in education, theatre, arts or sport, capital campaign fundraising, UK charity governance or CRM/donor systems would all be welcome, but none of it is essential.

We recognise that talent and potential come in many forms, so please don't be deterred if you don't meet every criterion.

What we offer:

• Employer pension contributions of 10% for managerial roles.
• Private medical insurance.
• Potential school fee concession (subject to availability and assessment criteria).
• Free on-site parking, free lunch and refreshments.
• 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday, with occasional evening, weekend and travel commitments. The role is school-based, but we're open to discussing flexible working so please do mention it in your application.

A word from the Head: Ruth O'Sullivan is clear about what she's looking for: a playmaker rather than someone who waits for direction. Bring her ideas and challenges and expect robust professional debate — and her genuine backing. The governing body is fully behind this appointment and sees it as pivotal to the school's future.

Closing date: 25 September 2026. Interviews will be arranged ad hoc on receipt of a credible application, so early applications are encouraged.

Holmewood House is committed to promoting and safeguarding the welfare of children, and all staff, volunteers and third parties are expected to share this commitment. The school follows a rigorous safer recruitment process. All applicants must be willing to undergo vetting checks appropriate to the post, including references from past employers and an enhanced DBS check.