Head of Private Office

The Opportunity: Be the Pulse of a Leading Educational Group

Are you a high-level operator who thrives on complexity, discretion, and strategic impact? We are looking for an exceptional Executive Officer to lead the Office of the Group CEO.

This isn't a traditional "support" role-it is a high-stakes, fast-paced position where you will act as a trusted conduit between the CEO and a diverse range of internal and external stakeholders. You will be the engine room of the executive suite, ensuring the strategic priorities of a £150m turnover organisation with over 2,000 staff are met with precision.

Reporting to the Group Chief of Staff, you will oversee the smooth running of the CEO's daily operations. This is a role for a "big picture" thinker who is also a master of the details.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Oversight: Lead complex programmes of activity and track key projects, monitoring risks and ensuring delivery.

• Executive Support: Provide exemplary diary and communications management, optimising the CEO's time for maximum impact.

• Stakeholder Diplomacy: Act as an ambassador, managing high-profile visits and building relationships across multiple sites in SE London, Surrey, and East Sussex.

• Governance & Analysis: Commission and synthesise high-level briefings and reports; coordinate Board materials and ensure compliance with the Nolan Principles.

• Innovation: Use AI effectively and ethically to streamline systems, while horizon-scanning the education sector for emerging trends.

You are a resilient, methodical professional who remains calm under pressure. You possess the "ambassadorial" skills required to influence senior decision-makers and the technical savvy to modernize executive operations.

Essential Requirements:

• Experience: Significant background in business operations or executive support within a complex, multi-site organisation (Education, Public Sector, or Corporate).

• Communication: Exceptional writing skills and the ability to present complex information clearly to a variety of audiences.

• Mobility: A valid UK Driving License is essential, as you will be required to travel with and drive the Group CEO across regional sites.

• Tech-Forward: Highly proficient in Microsoft 365 and enthusiastic about the ethical application of AI in the workplace.

• Discretion: Absolute integrity and experience handling highly sensitive, confidential information.

Our Benefits Include:

• Generous Pension Scheme (TPS or LGPS).

• Excellent annual leave allowance.

• Free on-site parking and Cycle to Work scheme.

• Access to on-site gym, restaurants, and hair/beauty salons.

• Comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme and season ticket loans.

If you are a proactive leader ready to take on a career-defining role at the heart of a civic-minded organization, we want to hear from you.

Note: Previous applicants need not apply. We are a Disability Confident Committed employer and guarantee an interview to disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria.

We are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. This role involves working with children/vulnerable adults and is subject to an enhanced DBS check and social media screening.