Governance Development Lead

We are looking for an experienced and strategic Governance Development Lead to play a key role in shaping and strengthening governance across Orchard Hill College Academy Trust. As Deputy to the Director of Governance, you will work closely with Trustees, governors, executive leaders and school leaders to develop effective governance structures, drive continuous improvement, and ensure governance remains a strategic enabler of the Trust's success. This is an exciting opportunity for a governance professional who is passionate about leadership, organisational development and building high-performing governance arrangements that positively impact outcomes for children and young people.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Director of Governance in delivering the Trust’s strategic governance agenda and deputise as required.
• Lead governance development initiatives to enhance governance effectiveness across Trustees, Committees and Local Governing Bodies.
• Oversee governor and trustee recruitment, succession planning, engagement and diversity initiatives.
• Develop and deliver governance training, induction programmes and development opportunities for governors, trustees and governance leaders.
• Provide high-quality governance advice, guidance and strategic support to senior leaders, Trustees and governing bodies.

Key Requirements

• Significant experience supporting governance within an academy trust, education, public sector or similar governance environment.
• Strong knowledge of academy trust governance, board effectiveness, accountability frameworks and governance best practice.
• Experience leading governance development, improvement, organisational change or governance effectiveness initiatives.
• Excellent stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence, advise and challenge constructively at senior level.
• Strong strategic, analytical and communication skills, with experience producing reports, briefings and recommendations for senior audiences.