Interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Start Date: September
Contract: Interim (likely until Easter or as required) – with the potential to term permanent for the right candidate
Salary: Competitive day rate (dependent on experience)
Location: Ethos Academy Trust, Batley, West Yorkshire
Make an Immediate Impact Where It Matters Most
Ethos Academy Trust are seeking an experienced and values-driven Interim CEO to lead our Trust through a critical period of transition.
This is a unique opportunity to make a meaningful, immediate impact —providing stability, strengthening school improvement, and shaping the next phase of their journey.
About the Role
As Interim CEO, you will provide strong, steady leadership across the Trust from September, ensuring continuity and clarity during a period of change.
You will:
Stabilise and lead the Trust with confidence and credibility
Drive improvements in teaching, learning, and outcomes
Support schools facing challenge, including those preparing for inspection
Work closely with an experienced executive team (COO/CFO/Chief Education Officer/Executive Headteacher)
Build strong relationships with Trustees, leaders, and stakeholders
Maintain a collaborative, values-led culture
This role will run alongside the recruitment of a permanent CEO, with the potential for the successful candidate to be considered for the permanent post.
Who We’re Looking For
We are looking for a leader who can quickly understand context, build trust, and take decisive action where needed.
You will bring:
Proven experience in a senior MAT leadership role (CEO, Executive Leader, or similar)
A strong track record of school improvement and raising standards
Deep understanding of Ofsted and accountability frameworks
Experience leading through change, challenge, or organisational transition
A collaborative leadership style—able to influence, not dictate
What Matters Most
We are a Trust that values:
Integrity and strong moral purpose
Collaboration over hierarchy
Sustainable, thoughtful improvement
Putting children and young people at the heart of every decision
We are particularly interested in leaders who:
Have experience in specialist/SEND settings (desirable)
Bring credibility in improving teaching and learning
Can balance urgency with long-term thinking
Key Details
Start: September, with flexible handover arrangements available
Contract: Interim (with potential extension or permanent opportunity)
Structure: Supported by an established central team
Flexibility: Some flexibility in working pattern may be considered
Apply / Find Out More
For a confidential conversation or to express interest, please contact a member of the team at Satis Education via:
[email protected] and 01744 634654
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis so early expressions of interest are strongly encouraged. If you wish to be immediately considered please send your CV to us at the email address stated.
Ethos Academy Trust is committed to the safeguarding of children and young people. An enhanced disclosure from the DBS will be required for all roles. All candidates will also be subject to an online search for information about you as part of our due diligence and commitment to safeguarding.
