Job opportunity – Chief Executive Officer at City of London Academies Trust
Published: Tue 8 September 2026We’re looking for an exceptional leader to become our next Chief Executive Officer and lead the next phase of City of London Academies Trust’s growth and development.
This is a significant opportunity to lead a high-performing Trust with a clear educational philosophy, a talented workforce and a unique connection with the City of London Corporation. You will help shape the Trust’s future, improve outcomes, expand opportunities and transform the life chances of young people across City of London Academies.
Leading a high-performing Executive Team and academy leaders across our schools, you will drive the next phase of the Trust’s growth and development. You will provide the strategic vision, challenge and support required to ensure our academies continue to deliver exceptional outcomes, while building on the culture, standards and consistency that define COLAT as we grow.
You will galvanise leaders across the Trust behind a shared commitment to exemplary behaviour, outstanding teaching, a rigorous curriculum and exceptional pupil achievement. You will also ensure that COLAT continues to develop its wider offer, maximise the opportunities created through its City of London Corporation sponsorship, and prepare pupils for the changing world they will enter beyond school.
This role requires a leader who can combine absolute clarity about standards with openness to innovation; someone who understands the power of consistency across a multi-academy trust, but who is also capable of leading thoughtful development as the Trust grows and the national agenda evolves.
How to apply
Interested candidates are invited to submit an application form along with a personal statement (maximum of two sides of A4, font size 11) addressing the person specification. If you require additional information, would like an informal discussion about the role, or would like to book a place at one of our open events for prospective candidates, please email: enquiries@cola.org.uk
Applications should be submitted via MyNewTerm.
Closing date for applications: Monday 28 September 2026, 9am
Shortlisting: Shortlisted candidates informed by Wednesday 7 October 2026
Interviews: Wednesday 14 October and Thursday 15 October 2026