Ad Astra is seeking an exceptional Chief Executive Officer to guide our Trust through its next phase of growth and impact. We are looking for an inspiring leader who combines strategic vision with a relentless commitment to educational excellence and community outcomes. Explore our vision below and watch our short introductory video to hear directly from our Chair of Trustees about the future of our Trust.
Chief Executive Officer – Ad Astra Academy Trust
Salary Range £129,733 – £148,829
Permanent, to commence 1st September 2027.
Ad Astra is an Academy Trust made up of ten diverse primary schools across the Tees Valley and County Durham.
As the current Chief Executive Officer retires, the Trust Board now seeks to appoint a talented individual to lead the Trust forward.
The ideal candidate will be someone with significant experience within the Education Sector, with successful, demonstrable recent experience and achievement.
The Trust are seeking a strategic leader, who has the ability to maintain focus on the long-term issues by developing and holding a vision and strategic view. A leader who can harness the skills and enthusiasm of 500 employees and 3,000 pupils.
Ad Astra has a strong reputation for school improvement, developing staff and providing an increasingly personalised offer for the pupils who attend our schools, the Trust works hard to ensure that the children who attend our schools love learning and do well.
The key to Ad Astra is the core principles of excellence in teaching and learning, inclusion and developing a love of learning. This is a rare opportunity, with a chance to shape lives, and lead meaningful change.
Candidates are asked to demonstrate their skills and experience that they will bring to the post.
Please take a moment to view our short promotional video of the role
Ad Astra Academy Trust – Shape the Future of Our Trust: Chief Executive Officer Recruitment
Informal discussions regarding this post are warmly encouraged. To request a confidential, informal conversation, please contact Tilly Greer, HR Business Partner on 07458 139127 or via AATTilly.Greer@adastraacademytrust.com
The closing date for applications: 9am, Monday 2nd November 2026
The selection process will be held on both Wednesday 11th and Thursday 12th November.
Ad Astra Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. As such the successful candidate will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check.
This post is exempt under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (2013 and 2020).
Requesting an application form
Application forms and further details are available via the Ad Astra website site below or by contacting Tilly Greer directly on 07458 139127 or via AATTilly.Greer@adastraacademytrust.com
Candidates must only apply using the application form provided; CV’s will not be accepted.
Completed application forms to be emailed to: recruitment@adastraacademytrust.com