Case Study
Strategic CEO Recruitment
For a multi academy trust
A Multi Academy Trust, overseeing 33 schools across the South of England, required a new CEO following the outgoing leader’s decision to pursue new opportunities.
The Trust engaged Futures Education to lead the search for an exceptional new leader who could steer the organisation through both immediate pressures and long-term strategy.
Appointing a CEO to lead a large multi-academy trust demands not only experience and vision, but cultural alignment and credibility with stakeholders across diverse school communities. The process needed to be thorough, transparent, and capable of navigating significant disruptions.
Our solution
We began by engaging in detailed discovery sessions with the Trust’s central team to build a nuanced picture of their leadership needs and organisational priorities. A clear process and timescales were agreed, combining national advertising with a proactive, sector-wide headhunt. From over 100 expressions of interest, we created a credible longlist, which was refined to a shortlist of 10. After an initial interview stage, three candidates progressed to final selection. Throughout, we provided weekly updates and managed every stage – including candidate care, offer negotiation, and onboarding.
Challenges our experts faced
Our role became not just about managing a recruitment process, but about maintaining momentum, candidate engagement, and client confidence under uncertain circumstances.
Expert action plan
Providing several key benefits:
Built strong relationships
with the Trust’s leadership to align fully with their expectations
Delivered a multi-channel search
and attraction campaign
Sustained communication
with all parties during the pandemic pause
Delivered a transparent, structured recruitment process
from longlisting to final offer
Futures Education
Result
A successful appointment was made. Nikki, the selected candidate, was praised for her fit and readiness for the role. Our approach ensured a seamless transition despite the challenges presented by lockdown.
Education sector experts
Trusted by schools, MATs, and education leaders to deliver people-first talent that drives results, improves inclusion, and strengthens leadership at every level.
