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: Opportunity for strategic investment in digital capability and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in education while leading a dynamic, multidisciplinary team.
- Qualifications: Experience in leading complex services, business development, and client engagement.
The predicted salary is between 64000 - 70089 £ 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 employer: "National Foundation for Educational Research"
NFER is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises collaboration and innovation in the education sector. With a strong commitment to employee development, NFER provides ample opportunities for professional growth while supporting a mission-driven approach to improving educational outcomes. Located in Slough, the hybrid working model allows for flexibility, making it an attractive workplace for those seeking meaningful and impactful careers.
Contact Details:
"National Foundation for Educational Research" Recruitment Team
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