At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Church of England's education strategy and influence national policies.
- Company: Join the National Society for Education, a legacy organisation with over 200 years of impact.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, remote work flexibility, and the chance to shape future education.
- Other info: Opportunity to lead in a dynamic environment with significant national influence.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in education while promoting Christian values and collaboration.
- Qualifications: Extensive senior leadership experience and deep knowledge of the education system required.
The predicted salary is between 142770 - 142770 € per year.
Organisation: National Society for Education
Role: Chief Executive and Chief Education Officer for the Church of England
Location: Remote, with regular travel to London and across England and Wales
Salary: £142,770
Closing Date: 17:00 on Monday 8th June 2026
The National Society for Education (NS) is the Church of England’s national education office, with a proud legacy spanning over 200 years. The NS plays a pivotal role in enabling children, young people and adults to flourish through education that is Deeply Christian, serving the Common Good through our work supporting diocesan boards of education, who are the largest providers of schools in England and Wales, through influence at the most senior levels of government, and through a growing presence across Further and Higher Education.
Over the past decade the organisation has undergone significant growth and transformation, expanding its influence, reach and financial scale. Today, the NS operates in a complex and evolving education landscape shaped by changing government policy, heightened public accountability, increased devolution of policy to Wales, and wider social and geopolitical uncertainty. Within this context, the Church of England and Church in Wales remain major national voices in education, committed to collaboration, inclusion and excellence as we seek to serve the Class of 2040.
The NS is now seeking an exceptional leader to serve as Chief Executive and Chief Education Officer for the Church of England. This is a broad and influential role, combining organisational leadership with national system engagement and influence across dioceses, schools, FE, HE, government and a myriad of other partners across England and Wales. Reporting to the Chair and Council, the postholder will lead strategy, operations, culture and performance; and act as the Church of England’s senior education voice with government, regulators and key stakeholders.
The successful candidate will bring substantial senior leadership experience gained in complex, multi-stakeholder environments, alongside deep knowledge of the education system and public policies of England and Wales. They will demonstrate personal gravitas, sound judgement and the ability to lead with clarity through contested and high-profile issues. Exceptional communication skills, political and relational acuity, and a track record of building collaborative and engaged teams and partnerships will be essential.
As a public leader formed by a corrigible and inspiring Christian faith, the Chief Executive will be motivated by Christian values, a vision for the mission of Church schools, and committed to enabling institutions and people to flourish.
This role offers a rare opportunity to shape the future of education nationally with the distinct and hope-filled voice of the Church, building on a strong legacy while leading confidently into the next phase of impact and service.
For more information, and for an informal conversation about the role and your suitability, please visit our recruitment partners, GatenbySanderson, by clicking apply on website.
It is an occupational requirement in accordance with schedule 9 paragraph 1 of the Equality Act for the holder of this role to be a practising Christian.
Chief Executive and Chief Education Officer employer: National Society for Education
The National Society for Education (NS) is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead and influence the future of education in England and Wales from a deeply Christian perspective. With a strong commitment to collaboration, inclusion, and excellence, NS fosters a supportive work culture that values personal growth and professional development, ensuring that employees can thrive while making a meaningful impact on the lives of children and communities. The role of Chief Executive and Chief Education Officer not only provides a platform for strategic leadership but also allows for engagement with key stakeholders at the highest levels, all within a flexible remote working environment that encourages innovation and creativity.
Contact Detail:
National Society for Education Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Executive and Chief Education Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to the Church of England or education sectors. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation thoroughly. Understand their mission, values, and recent initiatives. This will not only help you answer questions but also show your genuine interest in the role. Plus, it’ll give you some great talking points to connect with your interviewers.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You need to clearly articulate your vision for the role and how your experience aligns with their needs. Role-play with a friend or mentor to refine your delivery and boost your confidence. Remember, first impressions matter!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate individuals who align with our mission. So, get your application in and let’s make a difference together!
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Executive and Chief Education Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Audience:Before you start writing, take a moment to understand who you're addressing. The National Society for Education is looking for someone with a strong Christian ethos and a passion for education. Tailor your application to reflect these values and show how your experience aligns with their mission.
Be Clear and Concise:When it comes to written applications, clarity is key. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. Make sure your points are easy to follow, as this will help us see your qualifications and vision for the role without getting lost in complex sentences.
Showcase Your Experience:Highlight your relevant leadership experience and achievements in education. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to navigate complex environments and engage with multiple stakeholders. This will help us understand how you can contribute to the NS's mission.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application reaches us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and the application process there!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Society for Education
✨Know Your Legacy
Familiarise yourself with the National Society for Education's history and its impact on education in England and Wales. Understanding their proud legacy will help you articulate how your vision aligns with their mission and values during the interview.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Experience
Prepare specific examples of your senior leadership experience in complex, multi-stakeholder environments. Be ready to discuss how you've navigated challenges and led teams effectively, as this role requires exceptional leadership skills.
✨Showcase Communication Skills
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Given the importance of communication in this role, consider preparing a brief presentation on a relevant topic in education that showcases your ability to engage and influence diverse audiences.
✨Emphasise Your Christian Values
Reflect on how your personal faith informs your leadership style and decision-making. Be prepared to discuss how your Christian values align with the mission of Church schools and how you can contribute to fostering a culture of inclusion and excellence.
