Head of Private Office to the Group CEO

Role Description

Full time, permanent role

Are you a highly professional, discreet and proactive leader ready to operate at the very centre of a dynamic and ambitious education group?

Our client is seeking an exceptional individual to oversee the smooth, efficient and strategic running of the Group CEO’s Office. Reporting directly to the Group Chief of Staff and Group Chief Governance Officer, you will play a pivotal role in enabling the Group CEO to lead with clarity, impact and purpose.

This is a rare opportunity to work at executive level across Further Education, Higher Education and schools, with scope for professional development and potential progression into governance and/or Chief of Staff pathways.

The Role

As Executive Lead for the Group CEO’s Office, you will:

• Own the day-to-day operations of the CEO’s Office, ensuring seamless, timely and professional communication and information flow.
• Provide high-quality executive and personal assistant support, expertly managing and optimising a complex diary to maximise strategic impact.
• Coordinate resources, facilities, travel and events across multiple College and Trust sites, including oversight of high-profile visits.
• Draft, review and manage internal and external communications, working closely with the Communications team and supporting appropriate social media engagement.
• Prepare concise briefings and reports; commission and synthesise analysis ahead of key meetings, Board discussions and public engagements.
• Track and deliver strategic projects on behalf of the Group CEO and Directorate, monitoring milestones, risks and outcomes.
• Promote a “can do” customer-service culture, mentoring Executive Assistants and embedding effective digital processes.
• Horizon-scan across FE, HE and schools’ policy landscapes, summarising implications for executive leadership.
• Support governance and compliance processes, coordinating Board papers and ensuring robust follow-through on decisions.
• Maintain the highest standards of discretion, judgement and confidentiality in handling sensitive matters.
• Oversee non-pay budgets and expenses for the CEO and Directorate.
• Contribute to CRM development to strengthen stakeholder engagement and communications effectiveness.

About You

You will bring:

• Degree-level education (or equivalent experience).
• Significant experience in business operations within education or a similarly complex, multi-site organisation.
• A proven track record of engaging senior decision-makers and influencing change.
• Experience leading administrative or secretarial teams across multiple locations.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with confidence in professional social media use.
• The ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
• Strong digital capability, including high proficiency in Microsoft 365 and adaptability to new systems.
• Confidence using AI effectively and ethically, with innovative ideas to embed it within systems and processes.
• Outstanding organisational skills, resilience and attention to detail.
• The ability to move seamlessly between operational detail and strategic overview.
• Strong ambassadorial qualities, integrity and absolute discretion.
• A commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, and to upholding the Nolan Principles of Public Life.

Working Arrangements

• Full-time, permanent role.
• Primarily based in Bromley and Orpington, with hybrid working and regular travel across school and college sites in South East London, Surrey and East Sussex.
• Evening and weekend working may be required to support the Group CEO’s schedule.
• A full UK driving licence is essential, as travelling with and driving the Group CEO will form part of the role.

Why Apply?

This is more than an executive support role. It is a strategic leadership opportunity at the heart of an ambitious, values-driven education group. You will gain unrivalled exposure to executive decision-making, governance processes and system leadership — with clear opportunities for professional growth.

If you combine professionalism with pace, discretion with drive, and operational excellence with strategic insight, we would be delighted to hear from you.