Director of Partnerships and Engagement

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