At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead Ethos Academy Trust through a critical transition and drive school improvement.
- Company: Ethos Academy Trust, committed to integrity and collaboration.
- Benefits: Competitive day rate, flexible working arrangements, and potential for permanent role.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact on education and shape the future of students.
- Qualifications: Proven senior leadership experience in education and strong track record of improvement.
- Other info: Join a supportive team and enjoy flexibility in your working pattern.
Interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Start Date: September
Contract: Interim (likely until Easter or as required) – with the potential to term permanent for the right candidate
Salary: Competitive day rate (dependent on experience)
Location: Ethos Academy Trust, Batley, West Yorkshire
Make an Immediate Impact Where It Matters Most
Ethos Academy Trust are seeking an experienced and values-driven Interim CEO to lead our Trust through a critical period of transition. This is a unique opportunity to make a meaningful, immediate impact—providing stability, strengthening school improvement, and shaping the next phase of their journey.
About the Role
As Interim CEO, you will provide strong, steady leadership across the Trust from September, ensuring continuity and clarity during a period of change.
Responsibilities
- Stabilise and lead the Trust with confidence and credibility
- Drive improvements in teaching, learning, and outcomes
- Support schools facing challenge, including those preparing for inspection
- Work closely with an experienced executive team (COO/CFO/Chief Education Officer/Executive Headteacher)
- Build strong relationships with Trustees, leaders, and stakeholders
- Maintain a collaborative, values-led culture
This role will run alongside the recruitment of a permanent CEO, with the potential for the successful candidate to be considered for the permanent post.
Who We’re Looking For
We are looking for a leader who can quickly understand context, build trust, and take decisive action where needed.
Qualifications & Experience
- Proven experience in a senior MAT leadership role (CEO, Executive Leader, or similar)
- A strong track record of school improvement and raising standards
- Deep understanding of Ofsted and accountability frameworks
- Experience leading through change, challenge, or organisational transition
- A collaborative leadership style—able to influence, not dictate
What Matters Most
We are a Trust that values:
- Integrity and strong moral purpose
- Collaboration over hierarchy
- Sustainable, thoughtful improvement
- Putting children and young people at the heart of every decision
We are particularly interested in leaders who:
- Have experience in specialist/SEND settings (desirable)
- Bring credibility in improving teaching and learning
- Can balance urgency with long‑term thinking
Key Details
- Start: September, with flexible handover arrangements available
- Contract: Interim (with potential extension or permanent opportunity)
- Structure: Supported by an established central team
- Flexibility: Some flexibility in working pattern may be considered
Apply / Find Out More
For a confidential conversation or to express interest, please contact a member of the team at Satis Education via: admin@satiseducation.co.uk and 01744 634654. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis so early expressions of interest are strongly encouraged. If you wish to be immediately considered please send your CV to us at the email address stated.
Ethos Academy Trust is committed to the safeguarding of children and young people. An enhanced disclosure from the DBS will be required for all roles. All candidates will also be subject to an online search for information about you as part of our due diligence and commitment to safeguarding.
Interim CEO - Ethos Academy Trust, Batley, West Yorkshire - Sept 26 start in Harrogate employer: SATIS EDUCATION LIMITED
Contact Detail:
SATIS EDUCATION LIMITED Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim CEO - Ethos Academy Trust, Batley, West Yorkshire - Sept 26 start in Harrogate
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who know Ethos Academy Trust. A personal recommendation can make all the difference when you're aiming for that Interim CEO role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by understanding the Trust's values and current challenges. Show us how your leadership style aligns with their mission and how you can drive improvements in teaching and learning.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to discuss your past experiences in leading through change. We want to hear about specific examples where you've made a significant impact, especially in challenging situations.
✨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 love seeing candidates who take the initiative!
We think you need these skills to ace Interim CEO - Ethos Academy Trust, Batley, West Yorkshire - Sept 26 start in Harrogate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Interim CEO role. Highlight your leadership experience, especially in school improvement and organisational change. We want to see how your background aligns with our values and the specific challenges we face.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share your vision for leading Ethos Academy Trust and how you plan to make an immediate impact. Be authentic and let your passion shine through!
Showcase Your Collaborative Style: We value collaboration over hierarchy, so be sure to highlight examples of how you've worked with teams and stakeholders in the past. Show us how you build trust and foster a positive culture in your previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of being considered, apply directly through our website. This ensures your application gets to the right people quickly. Plus, it shows us you're serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at SATIS EDUCATION LIMITED
✨Understand the Trust's Values
Before your interview, take some time to really get to grips with the values of Ethos Academy Trust. They prioritise integrity, collaboration, and putting children at the heart of every decision. Reflect on how your leadership style aligns with these values and be ready to share specific examples.
✨Showcase Your Experience
As an Interim CEO, your experience is crucial. Prepare to discuss your previous roles in senior MAT leadership and how you've successfully driven school improvements. Use concrete examples that highlight your ability to lead through change and challenge, especially in contexts similar to what Ethos Academy Trust is facing.
✨Build Rapport with the Interview Panel
Establishing a connection with the interviewers can set you apart. Be personable and engage with them by asking insightful questions about their current challenges and goals. This shows that you’re not just interested in the role but also in the people and the mission behind it.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and decision-making process. Think about potential challenges the Trust might encounter during the transition period and prepare thoughtful strategies on how you would address them. This will demonstrate your readiness to make an immediate impact.