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- Tasks: Lead and support governance across our Trust, making a real impact on education quality.
- Company: Join The Thinking Schools Academy Trust, a family of schools dedicated to student success.
- Benefits: Flexible working, career development, health support, and exclusive discounts.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive culture that values wellbeing and professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team driving effective governance in education.
- Qualifications: Experience in governance, strong relationship-building, and strategic thinking skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
The Thinking Schools Academy Trust is seeking a professional, positive and people‑centred Lead Governance Professional to join our Governance & Compliance Department. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who cares deeply about education, thrives in a fast‑paced environment, and enjoys working with people. If you are someone who brings energy, professionalism and a sense of fun to your work, you will feel right at home in our team. We are extremely passionate about Governance and how effective Governance can have a direct measurable impact on the quality of education being delivered across our Trust. If being part of our journey to achieving consistent and highly effective governance across the Trust excites you, then please keep reading!
As our Lead Governance Professional, you will play a pivotal role in shaping and delivering high‑quality governance across the Trust. Your role will balance hands‑on operational delivery whilst also contributing to the strategic development of the Governance and Compliance Department.
The role requires an expert and confident professional who can build strong relationships, manage statutory processes with accuracy, and support governing boards to fulfil their roles responsibilities with confidence. You will be able to support, advise and influence others to drive improvements in all aspects of Governance and be able to demonstrate tangible results.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide expert governance support to Academies, the Central Trust and Subsidiary Boards
- Build and maintain strong relationships with Chairs, Heads, Clerks and Governors
- Lead, coach and develop a team of Regional Governance professionals
- Drive Governor recruitment, development and continuous improvement across the Trust
- Attend and clerk meetings (some outside usual working hours)
Please note: the role involves some evening meetings, regular travel within your region and periodic travel across our three hubs.
We’re looking for someone who:
- Has proven experience in Governance, ideally in Education or the wider public sector
- Can balance strategic thinking with hands-on delivery
- Builds strong relationships and communicates with confidence and credibility
- Leads with integrity, empathy and sound judgement
- Is organised, solutions-focused and committed to improving outcomes for schools and communities
Why Join Us?
Be part of a high-performing, highly respected team known for exceptional delivery and collaboration. Make a real impact across the Trust through strong leadership and meaningful governance support. Benefit from a well-structured induction and ongoing career development opportunities. Work within a culture where wellbeing, recognition, and aspirations are genuinely valued and supported.
You can be based in either Portsmouth or Kent with regular travel required across Trust sites and schools. We offer flexible working including 2-3 days working from home, supporting a healthy work-life balance. This is a 37 hours per week role with flexibility to work either 42, 43 or 44 weeks per year or full time (52 weeks).
Ready to take your governance career to the next level with a team that’s making a difference? Apply now and become part of our journey.
About Us
The Thinking Schools Academy Trust is a family of schools across the South West, South, South East and East of England, consisting of early years, primary, secondary and specialist provision. We believe that every young person in our community deserves to have the best opportunities at life regardless of their individual circumstances.
What our Trust will offer you:
- Career Development: We are committed to supporting your professional growth and offer a wide range of opportunities for career advancement. From staff development days and conferences to apprenticeships, we provide clear pathways for progression and promotional opportunities across our regions.
- Health and Wellbeing Support: Access our 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme, wellbeing support, Private Healthcare scheme, free flu vaccinations and eye care vouchers.
- Employee Recognition: Referral Scheme, Long Service Awards and the TSTARS Recognition Programme.
- TSAT Benefits Portal: A one-stop shop benefits hub that gives you access to a range of exclusive benefits including cashback from supermarkets and high street retailers, dental insurance scheme, Cycle to Work Scheme and discounted Gym Membership.
- Blue Light Card: Offering exclusive discounts and savings at thousands of retailers, restaurants, and attractions.
Next steps:
If you are interested in working in our Governance team, benefiting from a supportive network of colleagues across our Trust, and are keen to progress your career then please apply today! Early applications are encouraged and we reserve the right to close the vacancy if a suitable candidate is found.
To arrange an informal conversation please contact: Jennifer Coates, Head of Governance & Compliance at [email protected]. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check. As per KCSIE we will also undertake online searches for all shortlisted candidates, if you have any questions regarding this process please email [email protected].
Lead Governance Professional in Portsmouth employer: TSAT
Contact Detail:
TSAT Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Governance Professional in Portsmouth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the education sector. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to current or former employees of The Thinking Schools Academy Trust. Building relationships can open doors you didn’t even know existed!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the Trust’s values and recent initiatives. Think about how your experience aligns with their mission. Practise answering common interview questions, but also be ready to discuss how you can contribute to effective governance and support their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for education! When you get the chance to chat with someone from the Trust, let your enthusiasm shine through. Share your thoughts on governance in education and how it impacts student outcomes. They want to see that you care as much as they do!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team. So, hit that apply button and let’s get you on board!
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Governance Professional in Portsmouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Education: When writing your application, let your love for education shine through! We want to see how much you care about making a difference in governance and how it impacts students' lives. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Lead Governance Professional role. Use keywords from the job description and demonstrate how your skills and experiences align with what we’re looking for. This shows us you’ve done your homework!
Be Personable and Professional: We’re all about people here at StudySmarter, so don’t be afraid to let your personality come through in your writing! Balance professionalism with a friendly tone to show us you’d fit right into our team culture. Remember, we value energy and a sense of fun!
Apply Through Our Website: To make sure your application gets to us without a hitch, apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly and can get back to you quickly. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at TSAT
✨Know Your Governance Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your governance knowledge, especially in the education sector. Familiarise yourself with key policies and frameworks that govern schools and trusts. This will not only show your expertise but also your genuine interest in the role.
✨Build Relationships Before the Interview
Since this role is all about building strong relationships, try to connect with current or former employees of the Trust before your interview. This can give you valuable insights into the culture and expectations, plus it shows your proactive approach.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific governance challenges. Think of examples from your past experience where you've successfully navigated similar situations. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.
✨Show Your People Skills
As a Lead Governance Professional, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively and lead a team. Be ready to discuss how you've motivated others and resolved conflicts in previous roles. Highlight your empathy and integrity in these scenarios.