Trustee - Co-op Academies Trust

Job description

Do you want to help shape the strategic direction of a Trust educating thousands of young people across 38 diverse academies - from primary to SEMH settings?

Co-op Academies Trust is a values-led, growing organisation with academies across four regional hubs in the North of England. Working closely with our sponsor, the Co-op, we aim to improve lives through great education, inclusion, and strong community impact.

Our Co‑operative ways of being guide everything we do:

Be yourself, always • Show you care • Do what matters most • Succeed together

The opportunity

We are seeking a Trustee who can offer strategic insight, independent challenge, and a deep commitment to improving outcomes for young people. You’ll join a high‑support, high‑challenge Board that works closely with the executive team to drive excellence across all 38 academies.

What you’ll do

• Shape, approve and monitor delivery of Trust-wide strategic priorities.
• Hold the executive to account for educational and organisational outcomes.
• Ensure strong financial stewardship and long-term sustainability.
• Provide constructive challenge and support to the CEO and senior team.
• Oversee governance, risk, assurance and regulatory compliance.
• Champion our Co‑operative values across culture, decisions and practice.

Who we’re looking for

We’re particularly interested in someone with substantial experience improving teaching and learning across a large, complex MAT. You may bring experience such as:

• Current or former MAT CEO or senior executive with system-wide responsibility.
• Recognised system leader with a track record of school improvement across multiple settings.
• Senior leader in education policy, bringing insight into national frameworks and reform.
• Leader in SEND and inclusion, with experience improving provision and outcomes at scale.

You’ll bring sound judgement, strategic thinking, and a commitment to high standards, equity, and strong governance. And while our schools are based in the North, we’re very happy to consider candidates from anywhere in the UK.

Why join us?

As a Trustee, you’ll play a meaningful role in shaping the life chances of thousands of young people across the North. Working with a values-driven Trust and a Board that is collaborative, ambitious, and focused on making a difference.

Extra information

Status

Open

Education Level

Secondary School

Location

Manchester Area

Type of Contract

Full-time jobs

Published at

03-04-2026

Profession type

Teaching / Instructors / Guides

Full UK/EU driving license preferred

No

Car Preferred

No

Must be eligible to work in the EU

No

Cover Letter Required

No

Languages

English