Head of Governance

Pay Scale: NJC SCP 36–41

Contract: Permanent, full time (36 hours per week)

Report to: Chief Finance and Operations Officer and Chair of Trust Board

Location: Central Office with travel across Trust sites

Pope Francis Catholic Multi Academy Trust is a family of Catholic schools, established by the Archbishop of Liverpool, at an exciting turning point in its development. We currently have four secondary schools and four primary schools, with a number of schools set to join the Trust this year as we grow significantly.

Inspired by the Gospel and the teachings of Pope Francis, we are united in our mission to provide the very best Catholic education that encourages every person to strive, achieve and flourish, mindful of the needs of others, with no one left behind. Our values of Joy, Mercy, Service, Dignity and Solidarity are not just words: they are our way of working, learning and being.

We understand that each school is unique and has its own distinctive community to serve. Our model is not transactional or one of entitlement; it is one of accompaniment, support and challenge within a family of schools. As our Trust continues to grow, effective governance will play an increasingly important role in ensuring we remain faithful to our mission, accountable in our decision‑making and ambitious for the children and communities we serve.

This is an exciting opportunity to join the Trust at a pivotal stage in our development and lead governance across a growing family of schools.

The Head of Governance will provide strategic leadership and operational oversight of governance administration and governance development across Pope Francis Catholic Multi Academy Trust. Acting as the principal governance adviser to the Trust Board, its committees and Local Governing Bodies, you will ensure governance arrangements are effective, compliant, professionally supported and aligned with the Trust’s Catholic mission and values.

You will work closely with Directors, Governors, Trustees, senior leaders and school‑based colleagues to strengthen governance practice, promote accountability and support continuous improvement across the Trust.

The role will be instrumental in ensuring that governance structures, policies and procedures remain robust and responsive as the Trust continues to expand.

• Have significant experience supporting Boards, Committees or governance structures in a complex organisation
• Have excellent written communication skills and the ability to produce high‑quality reports and governance documentation
• Demonstrate strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
• Be confident providing advice and guidance to senior leaders, Trustees and Governors
• Be committed to developing effective governance, succession planning and governor development
• Share a commitment to Catholic education and the Trust’s values of Joy, Mercy, Service, Dignity and Solidarity
• Experience with in academy trusts, multi‑academy trusts or Catholic education would be advantageous

Pope Francis Catholic Multi 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. If successful in being appointed to a post, you will be expected to apply for a disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service as well as other employment checks before your appointment is confirmed.

This post is subject to satisfactory references (requested prior to interview), an enhanced DBS check, medical check, evidence of qualifications and verification of the right to work in the UK.