Join us as an ambitious Governance Professional and help to shape and strengthen our forward-thinking Multi-Academy-Trust, by influencing strategic direction and supporting in effective decision-making.

We are a thriving MAT of six schools in Hertfordshire, supported by a well-established central services team, has a people-first culture that values staff voice, embraces innovation and continuous improvement, and is committed to evolving and strengthening its governance arrangements.

This is an excellent opportunity for an ambitious and motivated individual to develop a rewarding career in school and trust governance. Previous governance experience is highly desirable but not essential.


THE CANDIDATE
Experience within the education sector and a governance and compliance role would be highly desirable but is not essential.

The successful candidate will demonstrate an understanding of the importance of effective governance and a genuine enthusiasm for developing their knowledge of governance principles, company and charity law, and regulatory requirements.

They will have the capability to undertake the responsibilities of Company Secretary, providing expert governance support and helping to ensure the Trust remains compliant with the Academy Trust Handbook, Governance Handbook, and all relevant regulatory requirements.

Essential skills:
- Excellent organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities
- Strong written and verbal communication skill
- High levels of accuracy and attention to detail
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build effective working relationships
- Sound judgement, discretion, and the ability to maintain confidentiality
- A proactive, self-motivated approach with the ability to work independently and collaboratively
- Confidence in supporting senior leaders, trustees, and governors
- Good IT skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office 365
- A commitment to continuous learning and professional development

THE DETAILS

This is a pivotal role at the heart of the Trust, working in partnership with the Executive Team and Trust Board to influence strategic direction, support effective decision-making, and ensure the highest standards of governance, compliance and accountability are consistently maintained.

Attendance at all governance meetings is essential, including a mix of on-site and remote sessions, some of which may take place early mornings or evenings. There are 4 Local Advisory Board meetings per school, per year and 2 Trustee Board meetings per term, plus committee meetings. A flexible approach and the ability to travel independently across all Trust sites is key. The role is term-time with two additional weeks worked flexibly during school holidays.

This role offers:
- Flexibility: Hybrid working model with term-time hours and additional two weeks worked flexibly during holidays
- Autonomy: Opportunity to make the role your own, shaping governance strategy and frameworks across the Trust
- Impact: Work at the heart of decision-making, advising the Board, Members and Local Advisory Bodies
- Innovation: Clerking is supported by AI tools, freeing you to focus on strategic leadership and governance excellence

Our Trust offers:
- Supportive culture: A collaborative and supportive team environment
- Staff wellbeing package: Includes free school lunches, flu vaccinations, eye tests, parking and Employee Assistance Programme
- Pension: Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
- CPD: A variety of professional development opportunities
- Opportunities: The chance to evolve the role and make a lasting impact on governance across our Trust

If you are interested and would like an initial conversation to discuss your current experience and suitability for the role, we would welcome an initial conversation with you. 

Please contact Lynn Taylor, Senior HR Officer on 07398 140241 or email: ltaylor@aspireacademies.org.uk

Safeguarding Statement:
Aspire Academies Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Appointment to this post is subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check as well as other pre-appointment checks, including an online check, as outlined in Keeping Children Safe in Education (September 2024).

Equal Opportunities:
To help us meet our high standards and aspirations of a fully diverse and inclusive workplace, we strongly encourage suitably qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply and to join us.