Chief Executive Officer / Executive Principal

The Sheffield UTC Academy Trust are seeking to appoint a Chief Executive Officer / Executive Principal to start ideally 01 January 2027.

This is a pivotal appointment for the Trust, allowing it to build on the success of the retiring current CEO. The CEO will provide clear, ambitious leadership, ensuring that our vision and values are translated into outstanding outcomes for all students across our UTCs. Central to this role is the leadership of the Trust within its context of delivering an outstanding educational experience grounded in real, relevant workplace practice. Partnerships with world-class companies, other schools, colleges and universities give our students a unique start to their future careers.

We provide training today for the jobs of tomorrow. Our cutting-edge facilities and engagement with employers and university partners provides an exciting environment. Our destinations are testament to our success with students progressing to Russell Group Universities including Cambridge, securing higher level apprenticeships and employment at companies including McLaren, Boeing, Rolls-Royce, Toyota, NHS, Bauer Media, BP and the Royal Navy.

The successful candidate will be a highly skilled leader who understands the challenges of educating 13–19-year-olds in an employer and university led technology rich environment. Effective partnership working is absolutely critical to the Trust’s success. Working closely with the Board of Trustees and Members, you will shape the future direction of the Trust, driving continuous improvement, financial sustainability and strong organisational performance.

We are looking for a highly experienced and credible leader, ideally with a strong background in senior leadership within a Multi-Academy Trust or similar educational setting. You will bring a deep understanding of the educational landscape, alongside expertise in areas such as governance, finance, HR and organisational development.

The role combines strategic leadership with operational accountability. You will oversee all aspects of the Trust’s performance, including educational standards, financial management, people leadership, and external partnerships. You will ensure robust systems and structures are in place to deliver both immediate priorities and long-term objectives, while maintaining full compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements.

IMPORTANT: Please see attached to this vacancy, full job desciption and person specification.

To apply, please download the attached UTC application form. CVs will not be accepted.

In addition to your application form, please outline with your covering letter (no more than 3 sides of A4) how you meet the requirements of the job description and person specification in particular with reference to:

• your motivation for applying for the role and your understanding of the distinctive mission of UTC education.
• your experience of strategic leadership within a complex educational or organisational setting.
• your experience of improving educational outcomes, organisational effectiveness and leadership capacity.
• your approach to partnership working, stakeholder engagement and system leadership
• your vision for the future of technical and employer-led education.