About this role
GLF Schools is seeking an outstanding Director of Partnerships and Engagement to strengthen and expand the relationships that enable the Trust to deliver exceptional outcomes for children, families and communities. This is a pivotal role in shaping how GLF Schools works in deep partnership with local authorities and system partners to maximise opportunity, influence and impact for the benefit of our children.
Your Opportunity
As Director of Partnerships and Engagement, the successful candidate will lead the strategic development and management of high-impact partnerships that expand opportunities for GLF children. Working closely with the Chief Development Officer, CEO, Executive Team and senior leaders, they will position GLF as a sector-leading Trust, building strong relationships locally, regionally and nationally.
The postholder will develop and nurture partnerships with schools, system leaders, government bodies, corporate organisations and wider stakeholders, ensuring that GLF is at the forefront of collaboration and innovation.
They will play a key role in supporting GLF’s growth strategy, leading early engagement with prospective schools and helping to shape regional development and expansion. Alongside this, there will be opportunities to work across the Trust to embed a culture of collaboration, enabling knowledge sharing and strengthening partnerships both within GLF and externally.
They will also contribute to system leadership, representing GLF at senior forums, bringing in external insight and shaping thought leadership to ensure the Trust continues to evolve and respond to emerging challenges and opportunities.
This will be a hybrid post, with a base at our GLF Schools Head Office in Banstead, Surrey, and travel required across the Trust and to partner organisations as needed.
What we are looking for
Senior leadership experience in education, public sector or complex multi-stakeholder environments Proven track record of building and leading high-impact partnerships Ability to influence at Executive and Board level Strong experience representing organisations at regional or national level Exceptional relationship-building, communication and influencing skills Strong understanding of the education landscape and policy environment Ability to work collaboratively and drive impact across organisational boundaries Experience contributing to system-wide improvement and knowledge sharing Strategic, proactive and solutions-focused mindset Join the GLF Schools Community
As a part of GLF Schools, you will join a community of staff dedicated to transforming education. With regular progression discussions, there will be a wealth of opportunities for you to grow your career, whether in one of our 43 academies or in our central team.
A growing Multi Academy Trust with over 2,500 colleagues and over 19,000 pupils Founded upon the values of Respect, Inclusivity, Integrity, Kindness and Ambition 43 primary and secondary schools across 7 Local Authority areas across the south of England We work as a community whilst ensuring each school maintains its own unique identity Committed to ensuring all children and young people receive the best possible education Our Employment Offer
GLF Schools has a generous employment offer, which allows all our colleagues to Grow, Learn and Flourish
Access to our highly competitive Local Government Pension Scheme Flexible working options Generous holiday allowance Work life and family friendly policies Employee wellbeing initiatives Career pathways and talent management Access to a staff benefits portal Community and collaboration working model The Details
Salary: Leadership 3 - £75,000
Start Date: As soon as available
Contract type: Permanent, full time (36 hours a week, 52 weeks a year).
Closing date: 31st May 2026
Interview date: TBC