At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead transformational change across schools in South Cumbria and drive school improvement.
- Company: Join Co-op Academies Trust, a values-driven organisation focused on education.
- Benefits: Enjoy 31 days annual leave, pension schemes, and exclusive Co-op employee benefits.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team shaping the future of education in your region.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people and their communities.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in educational leadership and a commitment to co-operative values.
The predicted salary is between 157997 - 168969 £ per year.
Co-op Academies Trust
Contract: Full-time, permanent
Salary: £157,997 – £168,969 plus significant additional benefits
Accountable to: Chief Executive Officer
Start date: January 2027
Location: Nearest Trust Headquarters
Are you ready to lead transformational change across a region of schools? We are seeking an exceptional senior education leader to join our Trust as Regional Director – South Cumbria. This is a rare opportunity to play a pivotal role in improving outcomes for children and young people while helping shape the strategic direction of a values-driven, ambitious Trust.
Co-op Academies Trust is built on the principles of co-operation and a commitment to improving the life chances of young people through a great education. Working closely with our sponsor, the Co-op Group, our academies are united by shared values including self-help, democracy, equality, equity and solidarity. These values underpin everything we do and are reflected in our ‘Ways of Being Co-op’: Do what matters most, Be yourself always, Show you care and Succeed together.
As Regional Director, you will lead a hub of six schools in South Cumbria, including an all-through academy and five primary schools. You will work closely with Headteachers, Academy Community Councils and Trust colleagues to drive school improvement, strengthen leadership and ensure that every academy delivers the highest possible standards of education and pupil experience.
You will join the Trust’s central Senior Leadership Team and play a key role in shaping Trust strategy, supporting the growth of the organisation and championing the power of co-operation across our academies and communities.
Working in partnership with the CEO, Trust Board and senior leaders, you will provide strategic leadership across the region while also leading a key Trust-wide priority area, striving for excellence and impact across the organisation.
As Regional Director, you will:
- Provide strategic leadership and management for academies across the South Cumbria region.
- Lead, coach and support Headteachers and senior leaders to deliver sustained school improvement.
- Monitor academy performance and challenge leaders to secure excellent outcomes for pupils.
- Work collaboratively with the Trust Board, Academy Community Councils and regional partners.
- Champion co-operative values and ensure they are embedded across academies and communities.
- Contribute to Trust-wide strategy as a member of the central leadership team.
- Identify opportunities for Trust growth and support new schools joining the Trust.
- Build strong relationships with partners including local authorities, Ofsted and educational organisations.
- Lead on a Trust-wide priority area, driving improvement and excellence across the organisation.
The successful candidate will:
- Be an experienced and highly credible education leader with a strong track record of improving schools.
- Demonstrate the ability to influence and support leaders beyond a single institution.
- Be skilled at evaluating school performance and implementing effective improvement strategies.
- Have the ability to build strong partnerships and networks across education and the wider community.
- Demonstrate excellent communication, leadership and interpersonal skills.
- Be committed to the co-operative values and ethos that underpin the Trust.
This is a unique opportunity to lead a region of schools at a pivotal stage in its development and to make a meaningful difference to the lives of young people and their communities.
Benefits include:
- 31 days annual leave plus bank holidays
- Local Government Pension Scheme or Teachers’ Pension Scheme (subject to eligibility)
- Access to a wide range of Co-op employee benefits
For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Jenna Everett on 07593 583 047 or email jenna@satiseducation.co.uk.
Application Process
Closing date for applications: Thursday 4th June 2026, 4pm
Interviews: Wednesday 17th and Friday 19th June 2026 (venue in Barrow to be confirmed)
For more information and to apply, please visit www.joincoopacademies.co.uk
Safeguarding
Co-op Academies Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check.
Regional Director- South Cumbria | Co-op Academies Trust employer: Satis Education
Co-op Academies Trust is an exceptional employer dedicated to transforming education in South Cumbria, offering a unique opportunity for senior leaders to make a significant impact on the lives of young people. With a strong commitment to co-operative values, a supportive work culture, and extensive employee benefits including generous annual leave and pension schemes, we foster an environment where leaders can thrive and drive meaningful change across our academies. Join us to be part of a collaborative team that prioritises excellence and community engagement, ensuring every child receives the best possible education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Regional Director- South Cumbria | Co-op Academies Trust
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees of Co-op Academies Trust on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by understanding the Trust's values inside out. Think about how your experience aligns with their commitment to co-operation and improving educational outcomes. Show them you’re not just a fit for the role, but for their culture too!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get a friend to do a mock interview with you. Focus on articulating your leadership style and how you've driven school improvements in the past. The more comfortable you are, the better you'll perform.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the Co-op Academies Trust family.
We think you need these skills to ace Regional Director- South Cumbria | Co-op Academies Trust
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion for education and improving outcomes for children shine through. We want to see how your values align with ours at Co-op Academies Trust.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to tailor your application specifically for the Regional Director role. Highlight your experience in leading school improvements and how you can contribute to our Trust's strategic goals.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that directly address the key responsibilities and requirements outlined in the job description.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered promptly. We’re excited to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Satis Education
✨Know the Co-op Values
Before your interview, make sure you understand the core values of the Co-op Academies Trust. Familiarise yourself with their principles of co-operation and how they impact educational leadership. Be ready to discuss how you can embody these values in your role as Regional Director.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your ability to lead and improve schools. Highlight instances where you've successfully influenced leaders and driven change, as this will resonate well with the interviewers looking for a strong track record.
✨Engage with Strategic Thinking
Think about the strategic direction of the Trust and be prepared to share your vision for the South Cumbria region. Discuss how you would approach school improvement and collaboration with Headteachers and community councils, showcasing your ability to think long-term.
✨Build Relationships
Emphasise your skills in building partnerships within the education sector and beyond. Be ready to talk about how you would engage with local authorities, Ofsted, and other educational organisations to strengthen the Trust's presence and impact in the community.
