Head of Governance in Liverpool

St Joseph Catholic Multi Academy Trust is seeking to appoint an exceptional Head of Governance to provide strategic leadership for governance, compliance and assurance across our Trust. This is a pivotal senior role, offering the opportunity to shape and strengthen governance as we continue our ambitious growth journey in partnership with the Archdiocese of Liverpool.

As Head of Governance, you will act as the Trust's Company Secretary and strategic lead for governance effectiveness, statutory compliance and assurance. You will:

• Lead the development and delivery of a robust, high-quality governance framework
• Provide expert advice to the Board, Members and senior leaders on governance and compliance
• Oversee statutory returns, regulatory submissions and policy management
• Coordinate Trust-wide data protection and information governance activity
• Lead the development of a central governance function, managing both in-house and outsourced provision
• Ensure consistency and quality of governance practice across all schools
• Play a key role in Trust growth, including governance due diligence and onboarding of new schools

This role offers a unique opportunity to influence governance at scale and contribute directly to the Trust's strategic direction.

We are looking for a highly skilled and credible governance professional who can operate confidently at senior level. You will bring:

• Significant experience in a governance or compliance leadership role within a regulated environment
• Expert knowledge of the academy trust governance framework and statutory requirements
• Strong understanding of company law, charity law and regulatory compliance
• Experience of advising Boards and senior leaders on governance matters
• Proven ability to lead, develop and coordinate teams and services across multiple sites
• Excellent communication, organisational and influencing skills, with the ability to manage complexity and risk effectively
• A commitment to supporting the Catholic ethos and mission of the Trust is essential.

Be part of a values-driven Trust committed to excellence in education and governance. Play a central role in shaping governance during a period of strategic growth. Work closely with senior leaders, Trustees and the Archdiocese. Opportunity to build and lead a Trust-wide governance function. Access to extensive professional development opportunities. Competitive salaries and pay progression. Generous pension scheme. A supportive Senior Executive Team, committed to developing people and transforming children's lives. Flexible working. Employee benefits. Wellbeing support, employee assistance programme, and cycle-to-work scheme.

These duties are neither exclusive nor exhaustive. The post-holder may be required to undertake other duties and responsibilities as determined by the Trust. Job descriptions are reviewed periodically to ensure they remain current and relevant.

This role is based at Trust Headquarters with regular travel to schools across the Trust. The role will also involve engagement with the Archdiocese of Liverpool and attendance at diocesan meetings as required. Availability for meetings outside core business hours (including evenings) is essential. A valid driving licence and access to a vehicle is necessary. Authorised mileage claims will be reimbursed.

St Joseph CMAT is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from all individuals regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, faith, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status or socio-economic background. We particularly encourage applications from underrepresented groups and are committed to making reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process.

St Joseph Catholic Multi Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff to share this commitment. Successful applicants will be required to undergo an enhanced disclosure and barring service check. In addition, as part of the shortlisting process, and in accordance with statutory guidance, we will carry out an online search (for publicly available material) to help identify any incidents or issues that have happened which we may want to explore with shortlisted applicants at interview.