Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the strategic direction of SLS and support school leaders across Scotland.
- Company: SLS is a professional association representing secondary school leaders in Scotland.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible home-based work, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on Scotland's education system and support the wellbeing of young people.
- Qualifications: Extensive leadership experience in secondary education is essential.
- Other info: Applications close on 25 April 2025; interviews on 20 May 2025.
The predicted salary is between 93189 - 97867 £ per year.
Location: Home-based, Scotland.
Salary: Salary is paid on a three-point salary scale from £93,189 - £95,497 - £97,867 pa
Job Type: Full time, Permanent.
Closing date for applications: Friday 25th April 2025.
Our current General Secretary, Graham Hutton, will retire at the end of August 2025 and we are now seeking to appoint an outstanding individual to lead the Association from that point. SLS represents Principal Teachers, Depute Headteachers, Resource/Business Managers and Headteachers in Secondary schools throughout Scotland.
As a professional association, SLS has influence at the highest levels and therefore the successful candidate will have the opportunity to make a real difference to the future of Secondary education in Scotland. The successful candidate will have considerable experience of leading in a Secondary school. We are looking for a dynamic individual whose principal interest is the education and wellbeing of the nation’s young people and the leaders who serve them.
The start date is August 2025 (or by negotiation) and the appointment is for an initial term of 5 years, which may be extended by negotiation. Salary is paid on a three-point salary scale from £93,189 - £95,497 - £97,867 pa, with reasonable travel and out-of-pocket expenses.
Post purpose:
The General Secretary leads all strategic aspects of SLS work, setting the vision for the organisation and steering it towards that future. They are responsible to the Elected Officers, who are SLS members, and through them to the Executive and Council. Ultimately, the General Secretary is responsible for effectively:
- Ensuring members are provided with professional advice and support
- Developing the policies of the Association
- Influencing the national educational agenda
- Leading and managing the work of the Association.
Providing professional advice and support to members:
The General Secretary is a source of information, counsel, help and advice to members across the whole range of professional aspects of being a school leader in Scotland. In this the General Secretary is well supported by the National Officer.
Developing the policies of the Association:
The General Secretary leads SLS Council in the strategic development of the policies of the Association. SLS has an increasing membership including all levels of senior leaders, both teaching and support staff, in state and independent schools. Therefore, sensitivity to the views of the whole membership is essential.
Influencing the national education agenda:
The General Secretary, working collaboratively with the Executive, plays an essential role in leading the national education agenda. The General Secretary promotes and communicates the Association's aims, policies and interests at the highest level, building key partnerships with politicians, relevant Government departments and other key organisations in Scottish Education, and through the media. Currently this includes meeting with the Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills, other political party members and Civil Servants; sitting on high level committees and working groups; and working with other national education associations and Directors of Education. The General Secretary is a key spokesperson and a public face for the Association and therefore works directly with all areas of the media, both print and broadcast.
Leading and managing the work of the Association:
The General Secretary is ultimately responsible for the professional officers and the SLS administrative support team. They oversee the responsible administration of the assets and resources of the Association and the effectiveness of the Association at national and local level. The General Secretary also plays a key role in maintaining the special relationship with the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL).
Extra Information:
Applications should be submitted in the form of a CV and a covering letter detailing the skills, qualities and experience that make you suitable for this post. The closing date for applications is 25 April 2025. It is anticipated that interviews will be held on Tuesday 20 May 2025. Candidates with experience or relevant job titles of; Principal, Headmaster, Headmistress, Head Teacher, School Director, School Secretary Lead, may also be considered for this role.
General Secretary / CEO in Glasgow employer: School Leaders Scotland
Contact Detail:
School Leaders Scotland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land General Secretary / CEO in Glasgow
✨Tip Number 1
Network with current and former members of the SLS to gain insights into the organisation's culture and priorities. This can help you tailor your approach and demonstrate your understanding of their needs during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Stay updated on current trends and challenges in Scottish education. Being well-informed will allow you to engage in meaningful discussions and showcase your commitment to influencing the national educational agenda.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership experience in detail, particularly how it relates to supporting and advising school leaders. Highlight specific examples where you've made a positive impact on educational outcomes.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with the key stakeholders in Scottish education, including politicians and government officials. Understanding their roles and perspectives will help you articulate how you can build partnerships effectively.
We think you need these skills to ace General Secretary / CEO in Glasgow
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your leadership experience in secondary education. Focus on relevant roles and achievements that demonstrate your ability to influence educational policy and support school leaders.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, clearly articulate your vision for the role of General Secretary. Discuss how your background aligns with the responsibilities outlined in the job description, particularly in influencing the national education agenda.
Showcase Relevant Experience: Emphasise any previous roles that involved strategic leadership or policy development within educational settings. Mention specific examples where you have successfully led initiatives that benefited students and educators.
Highlight Communication Skills: As the General Secretary will be a key spokesperson for the Association, it's crucial to demonstrate your strong communication skills. Include examples of how you've effectively engaged with stakeholders, including government officials and media.
How to prepare for a job interview at School Leaders Scotland
✨Understand the Role Thoroughly
Before the interview, make sure you have a deep understanding of the responsibilities and expectations of the General Secretary position. Familiarise yourself with the SLS's mission, current policies, and key challenges in Scottish education to demonstrate your commitment and insight.
✨Showcase Leadership Experience
Highlight your previous leadership roles in secondary education, focusing on specific achievements that align with the responsibilities of the General Secretary. Be prepared to discuss how you've influenced educational policies or led teams effectively.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
Since the role involves setting the vision for the organisation, be ready to discuss your strategic thinking and how you would approach developing policies for the Association. Think about potential partnerships and initiatives that could benefit SLS and its members.
✨Demonstrate Communication Skills
As a key spokesperson for the Association, strong communication skills are essential. Prepare examples of how you've successfully engaged with stakeholders, including government officials and the media, to advocate for educational issues.
