Chief Executive Officer

Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Permanent Contract

Full Time

Competitive Executive Leadership Salary (commensurate with experience)

About the Role

We are seeking an extraordinary, inspirational leader who will guide The Cardinal Newman Catholic Educational Trust into an ambitious new chapter and a bright future establishing our family of schools as a beacon of academic excellence and authentic Catholic formation.

Empowered by our Board of Directors, ably supported by dedicated local governors and Principals, and willed on by our passionate parents, colleagues, and parishes, you will not be alone on this journey. The Cardinal Newman Trust offers a deeply collaborative, supportive, and mission-aligned environment. You will lead a dedicated team of executive leaders, principals, and educators who share your passion for Catholic education and high educational standards. Together, guided by our core HEART values Hope, Excellence, Authenticity, Responsibility, and Truth you will build upon our strong foundations and propel our Trust towards an exceptional future.

We are looking for a dedicated, committed leader who:

• Has an unswerving commitment to trust-wide school improvement, systemic collaboration, and educational excellence across all key stages.

• Has a proven track record of successful executive or senior leadership, with the strategic acumen to drive high performance and financial sustainability.

• Embraces the challenge of leading a growing Trust through change with clear vision, determination, and authentic Catholic witness.

• Can actively promote and market the Trust and its schools to attract families, foster growth, and build upon our expanding regional and national reputation.

• Can inspire confidence across our entire community including Diocesan partners, governors, staff, and families through compelling communication and servant leadership.

We can offer:

• A highly competitive executive remuneration package and strong, proactive support from a skilled Board of Directors.

• An opportunity to lead and shape the strategic development of a vibrant, growing Multi-Academy Trust.

• A deeply committed, motivated, and collaborative strategic leadership team and headteacher network.

• A culture that values professional well-being, spiritual formation, and the continuous development of all staff as a true vocation.

About the Trust

The Cardinal Newman Catholic Educational Trust is a proud family of Catholic schools rooted in faith, dedicated to igniting a love of learning, fostering inclusive education, and empowering every individual to achieve their God-given potential.

Application Process

Application is via a CES Senior Leadership Application Form, accompanied by a supporting statement/cover letter addressed to the Chair of the Board of Directors, Mr Iheanyi Christopher Izuka (no more than two sides of A4), outlining:

• Your suitability for the role and alignment with our Catholic mission.

• Key strengths and self-identified developmental needs.

• Previous systemic leadership experience linked to the key areas of the CEO Job Description.

• How you will lead the delivery of the Trust’s Strategic Improvement Plan and embed our HEART values.

How to Apply:

Please see the vacancies page on the Trust website for further details: Vacancies | The Cardinal Newman Catholic Educational Trust

Key Recruitment Timeline & Candidate Visits

• Recruitment Pack Release: Monday 3rd August 2026

• Candidate Visits Window: Monday 14th September – Friday 25th September 2026.

Visits to our Trust schools are highly welcomed and encouraged. Please email to arrange an appointment during this window.

• Closing Date for Applications: Midnight, Sunday 20th September 2026

• Shortlisting: Monday 21st September 2026

• Interview & Assessment Days: Monday 28th and Tuesday 29th September 2026

• Target Appointment: Wednesday 30th September 2026

Safeguarding Statement

The Cardinal Newman Catholic Educational Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, governors and volunteers to share this commitment.

The successful applicant will be required to undertake an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and all other safer recruitment and pre-employment checks, including the receipt of satisfactory references. In accordance with Keeping Children Safe in Education, the Trust may also carry out an online search of shortlisted candidates as part of its recruitment process.

The Cardinal Newman Catholic Educational Trust is committed to fostering an inclusive culture where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. We welcome applications from suitably qualified candidates from all backgrounds and are committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion in accordance with the Equality Act 2010.