Interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Temporary 60000 - 80000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
Satis Education Ltd

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead Ethos Academy Trust through a critical transition, ensuring stability and driving school improvement.
  • Company: Ethos Academy Trust, dedicated to putting children at the heart of every decision.
  • Benefits: Competitive day rate, flexible working arrangements, and potential for permanent role.
  • Why this job: Make a meaningful impact in education and shape the future of our schools.
  • Qualifications: Proven senior leadership experience in education and a track record of school improvement.
  • Other info: Collaborative culture with support from an experienced executive team.

The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.

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. You will:

  • 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

Who We’re Looking For

We are looking for a leader who can quickly understand context, build trust, and take decisive action where needed. You will bring:

  • 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 Chief Executive Officer (CEO) employer: Satis Education Ltd

Ethos Academy Trust is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity for an Interim CEO to lead during a pivotal transition period. With a strong commitment to integrity, collaboration, and sustainable improvement, the Trust fosters a supportive work culture that prioritises the well-being of children and young people. Employees benefit from a collaborative leadership style, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in the education sector within the vibrant community of Batley, West Yorkshire.
Satis Education Ltd

Contact Detail:

Satis Education Ltd Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who might know about opportunities at Ethos Academy Trust. A personal recommendation can go a long way in landing that CEO role.

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by researching the Trust's values and recent initiatives. Show us how your leadership style aligns with their mission of putting children at the heart of every decision. Tailor your examples to demonstrate your experience in school improvement.

✨Tip Number 3

Be ready to discuss your approach to leading through change. We want to hear about specific challenges you've faced and how you navigated them. This is your chance to showcase your collaborative leadership style and ability to build trust.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, early applications are encouraged, so don’t wait too long to express your interest in this exciting opportunity.

We think you need these skills to ace Interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Leadership Skills
School Improvement
Understanding of Ofsted Framework
Change Management
Collaboration
Stakeholder Engagement
Trust Building
Decisive Action
Experience in Senior MAT Leadership
Accountability Frameworks
Influencing Skills
Values-Driven Approach
Experience in Specialist/SEND Settings
Long-Term Strategic Thinking

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Interim CEO role. Highlight your leadership experience, especially in school improvement and organisational transitions, to show us you’re the right fit.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re passionate about leading during this critical period. Share specific examples of how you've driven improvements and built trust in previous roles.

Showcase Your Values: We value integrity and collaboration, so make sure to weave these themes into your application. Let us know how you’ve put children and young people at the heart of your decisions in past positions.

Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of being considered, apply directly through our website. It’s the quickest way for us to receive your application and get you on our radar!

How to prepare for a job interview at Satis Education Ltd

✨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 own leadership style aligns with these values and be ready to share specific examples.

✨Showcase Your Experience

As an Interim CEO, your experience is key. Prepare to discuss your previous roles in senior MAT leadership and how you've successfully driven school improvements. Use concrete examples that highlight your track record and how you’ve navigated challenges in the past.

✨Demonstrate Collaborative Leadership

The role requires a collaborative approach, so think about how you can illustrate your ability to build strong relationships with stakeholders. Be prepared to discuss instances where you've influenced others positively and fostered a team-oriented environment.

✨Prepare for Change Management Questions

Given the transitional nature of this role, expect questions around change management. Think about your strategies for leading through change and how you can provide stability during uncertain times. Share your insights on balancing urgency with long-term goals.

Interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Satis Education Ltd

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