Executive Director of Schools – Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST)

As recognised global leaders in girls’ education, the Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST) combines over 150 years of expertise and experience with a progressive and pace-setting vision for the future.

Our 24 independent schools and two academies educate 20,000 students across England and Wales and are united by a shared purpose: to help girls learn without limits, so that they can go on to lead lives without limits.

We are now seeking an outstanding leader to join our Executive Leadership Team as Executive Director of Schools – a pivotal new role at the heart of the GDST. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive, the Executive Director of Schools will provide strategic leadership and direction across all GDST schools, ensuring they are consistently supported, challenged, and inspired to deliver an irresistible education and sustainable success.

As a key member of the Executive Leadership Team, the postholder will also play a central role in shaping the GDST’s future – supporting growth, strengthening our position as a leader in girls’ education, and ensuring we continue to make a lasting impact for generations to come.

Applications are invited from visionary, values-driven leaders with experience of leading across complex, multi-site organisations and a deep belief in the transformative power of education.

Start date – for September 2026, but January 2027 will be considered.

Interested candidates are invited to contact RSAcademics to arrange a confidential discussion with one of the consultants handling this appointment:

Isabel Patchett, Search Consultant: IsabelPatchett@RSAcademics.com

Jenny Funnell, Search Consultant: JennyFunnell@RSAcademics.com

Sarah Glencross, Head of UK Senior School Appointments: SarahGlencross@RSAcademics.com

The deadline for receipt of the application is 10.00am on Tuesday 6 January 2026. The appointment will be made by early February.

Applications should be made electronically to RSAcademics. To submit your application, please click on “Apply Now” and upload your documents according to the instructions provided.

You should submit the following (both in PDF format):

• an up-to-date, detailed CV. Your CV should include the exact dates of employment of your current and previous roles.
• a covering letter addressed to Cheryl Giovannoni, Chief Executive, GDST. We recommend that your letter is no longer than two pages and it must cover how you believe your personal qualities, skills and experience are relevant for this post and meet the person specification.

If you have any questions about uploading your application documents, please contact Jonathan Barnes, Head of Operations (Leadership Appointments) at: Applications@RSAcademics.com.  Jonathan can also be reached by calling our Head Office on +44 (0) 204 6269 791.

N.B. Safer recruitment checks will be made at all stages in the recruitment process.

The GDST is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.

RSAcademics is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in schools.