At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Trust to deliver outstanding educational experiences and outcomes for students.
- Company: Sheffield UTC Academy Trust, focused on innovative education and partnerships with top employers.
- Benefits: Opportunity to shape future leaders and work in a dynamic, technology-rich environment.
- Other info: Join a forward-thinking team dedicated to preparing students for tomorrow's careers.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' futures and drive educational excellence.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in education, with expertise in governance and organisational development.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 117800 £ per year.
The Sheffield UTC Academy Trust are seeking to appoint a Chief Executive Officer / Executive Principal to start ideally 01 January 2027. This is a pivotal appointment for the Trust, allowing it to build on the success of the retiring current CEO. The CEO will provide clear, ambitious leadership, ensuring that our vision and values are translated into outstanding outcomes for all students across our UTCs.
Central to this role is the leadership of the Trust within its context of delivering an outstanding educational experience grounded in real, relevant workplace practice. Partnerships with world‑class companies, other schools, colleges and universities give our students a unique start to their future careers. We provide training today for the jobs of tomorrow. Our cutting‑edge facilities and engagement with employers and university partners provides an exciting environment. Our destinations are testament to our success with students progressing to Russell Group Universities including Cambridge, securing higher level apprenticeships and employment at companies including McLaren, Boeing, Rolls‑Royce, Toyota, NHS, Bauer Media, BP and the Royal Navy.
The successful candidate will be a highly skilled leader who understands the challenges of educating 13–19‑year‑olds in an employer and university‑led technology rich environment. Effective partnership working is absolutely critical to the Trust’s success. Working closely with the Board of Trustees and Members, you will shape the future direction of the Trust, driving continuous improvement, financial sustainability and strong organisational performance.
We are looking for a highly experienced and credible leader, ideally with a strong background in senior leadership within a Multi‑Academy Trust or similar educational setting. You will bring a deep understanding of the educational landscape, alongside expertise in areas such as governance, finance, HR and organisational development. The role combines strategic leadership with operational accountability. You will oversee all aspects of the Trust’s performance, including educational standards, financial management, people leadership, and external partnerships. You will ensure robust systems and structures are in place to deliver both immediate priorities and long‑term objectives, while maintaining full compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements.
To apply, please download the attached UTC application form. CVs will not be accepted. In addition to your application form, please outline with your covering letter (no more than 3 sides of A4) how you meet the requirements of the job description and person specification in particular with reference to:
- your motivation for applying for the role and your understanding of the distinctive mission of UTC education.
- your experience of strategic leadership within a complex educational or organisational setting.
- your experience of improving educational outcomes, organisational effectiveness and leadership capacity.
- your approach to partnership working, stakeholder engagement and system leadership.
- your vision for the future of technical and employer‑led education.
Chief Executive Officer / Executive Principal employer: UTC Derby Pride Park
The Sheffield UTC Academy Trust is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a dynamic and innovative educational environment that prioritises student success and real-world application. With strong partnerships with leading companies and universities, employees benefit from a collaborative culture that encourages professional growth and development, ensuring that they are at the forefront of shaping the future of education. Our commitment to excellence and continuous improvement makes this an inspiring place to work for those passionate about making a meaningful impact in the lives of young people.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Executive Officer / Executive Principal
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those involved with Multi-Academy Trusts. Attend events, webinars, or even casual meet-ups to get your name out there and learn about potential opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your leadership style! When you get the chance to chat with decision-makers, be ready to discuss your vision for educational excellence and how you can drive improvement. Make it clear that you understand the unique challenges of leading in a tech-rich environment.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into the Trust's mission and values. Be ready to articulate how your experience aligns with their goals, especially around partnerships and stakeholder engagement. This will show them you're not just a fit, but the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, make sure your covering letter highlights your motivation and understanding of UTC education – that’s what they’re really looking for!
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Executive Officer / Executive Principal
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Thoroughly:Before you start writing, give the job description a good read. We want to see how your experience aligns with what they're looking for, so make notes on key points that resonate with you.
Tailor Your Covering Letter:Your covering letter is your chance to shine! Make sure it reflects your motivation for applying and how you understand UTC's mission. We want to see your passion and how you can contribute to their vision.
Showcase Your Leadership Experience:When detailing your experience, focus on strategic leadership in complex settings. Highlight specific examples where you've improved educational outcomes or organisational effectiveness. We love a good success story!
Follow Application Instructions Carefully:Make sure to download the application form and fill it out completely. Remember, CVs won't be accepted, so stick to the guidelines. We want to see your attention to detail right from the start!
How to prepare for a job interview at UTC Derby Pride Park
✨Know the Trust Inside Out
Before your interview, dive deep into The Sheffield UTC Academy Trust's mission, values, and recent achievements. Understanding their unique approach to education and partnerships will help you articulate how your vision aligns with theirs.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your strategic leadership skills. Highlight instances where you've improved educational outcomes or organisational effectiveness, as this is crucial for the CEO role.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about how you would approach partnership working and stakeholder engagement. Be ready to discuss your strategies for building relationships with employers, universities, and other educational institutions, as this is key to the Trust’s success.
✨Articulate Your Vision
Have a clear vision for the future of technical and employer-led education. Be prepared to share your thoughts on how to enhance the educational experience for students and ensure they are well-prepared for their future careers.
