At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and grow assessment services, driving sustainable income and market opportunities.
- Company: Join NFER, a respected charity improving education through research and assessment.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and the chance to shape educational outcomes.
- Other info: Be part of a mission-driven organisation focused on digital growth and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in education while leading a dynamic, multidisciplinary team.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in complex services, with business development and client engagement experience.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 80000 £ per year.
NFER is a leading independent charity dedicated to improving education outcomes through robust research and high-quality assessment. With over 80 years of impact, we work at the intersection of evidence, policy and practice, supporting schools, governments and system leaders in the UK and internationally.
We are now seeking a senior leader to oversee and grow our assessment services portfolio. This is a pivotal appointment, combining strategic leadership, commercial acumen and sufficient technical understanding to operate credibly within a highly specialist environment.
The successful candidate will lead a multidisciplinary team responsible for the development and delivery of large-scale assessments and services. They will play a central role in driving sustainable income growth, identifying new market opportunities and strengthening NFER’s position both in the UK and internationally. Alongside this, the role requires strong internal leadership, bringing together teams that have experienced recent change and establishing a clear, forward-looking direction.
Candidates will bring a track record of leading complex services or programmes, with experience of business development and client engagement. While deep assessment expertise is not essential, an ability to engage confidently with technical specialists and translate insight into commercial opportunity is critical. Above all, the successful individual will align with NFER’s mission and demonstrate the judgement to balance impact with financial sustainability.
This is an opportunity to shape the future of assessment within a respected, mission-driven organisation at a time of strategic investment in digital capability and growth.
Closing date: 04 July 2026
Final panel interviews are due to be held at NFER’s offices on 03 August 2026.
For further information, including the candidate brief and details of the application process, please visit: National Foundation for Educational Research - Deputy Director of Assessment | AQ or contact our advising consultants at Anderson Quigley for a confidential conversation.
Deputy Director, Assessment Services in Compton employer: National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER)
At the National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER), we pride ourselves on being a leading independent charity that champions educational improvement through impactful research and high-quality assessment. Our Slough office offers a hybrid working environment, fostering a collaborative and inclusive work culture where employees are encouraged to grow and develop their skills. With a commitment to professional development and a mission-driven approach, NFER provides a unique opportunity for individuals to make a meaningful difference in education while enjoying competitive benefits and a supportive team atmosphere.
Contact Details:
National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Director, Assessment Services in Compton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the education sector, especially those connected to NFER. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by understanding NFER's mission and recent projects. We want to see your passion for improving educational outcomes, so be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Think of examples where you've successfully led teams through change or driven growth. We love to see candidates who can inspire and motivate others.
✨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, we’re always on the lookout for talent that fits our mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Director, Assessment Services in Compton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Thoroughly:Before you start your application, make sure to read the job description from top to bottom. It’s crucial to understand what NFER is looking for in a Deputy Director, so you can tailor your application accordingly.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:In your written application, highlight your experience in leading teams and managing complex services. We want to see how you've driven growth and engaged with clients, so don’t hold back on those examples!
Align with Our Mission:Make sure to express how your values align with NFER’s mission of improving educational outcomes. We’re looking for someone who not only has the skills but also shares our passion for making a difference in education.
Apply Through Our Website:When you're ready to submit your application, please do it through our website. This ensures that your application goes directly to us, and we can review it promptly. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER)
✨Know Your NFER
Before the interview, dive deep into NFER's mission and recent projects. Understanding their focus on improving educational outcomes through research will help you align your answers with their goals and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your experience in leading multidisciplinary teams and managing change. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully driven growth and engaged clients in previous roles, as this is crucial for the Deputy Director position.
✨Translate Technical Insight
While deep assessment expertise isn't essential, you should be able to communicate effectively with technical specialists. Think of ways you've previously translated complex information into actionable business opportunities, as this will showcase your commercial acumen.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions about NFER's future direction, especially regarding digital capabilities and market opportunities. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also your strategic thinking, which is vital for a senior leadership role.
