Head of Development

About this role

We are seeking an experienced and ambitious Head of
Development to play a pivotal role in shaping the future growth of Orchard
Hill College Academy Trust. Reporting to the Executive Director of Strategy and
Partnerships, this senior leadership role will lead the development and
delivery of strategic growth initiatives, including new provisions,
partnerships, acquisitions and expansion opportunities. The successful
candidate will be a highly skilled relationship builder with a strong track
record of leading complex projects, influencing stakeholders and driving organisational
growth within education or the public sector. This is an exciting opportunity
to help deliver our Strategy to 2030 and make a lasting impact on the lives of
children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead
  the identification, development and delivery of strategic growth
  opportunities, including school and college expansion, acquisitions and
  new service models.
• Build
  and maintain strong partnerships with the Department for Education, Local
  Authorities, Multi-Academy Trusts and other key stakeholders.
• Manage
  a portfolio of development projects, ensuring delivery against agreed
  timelines, budgets, quality standards and strategic objectives.
• Lead
  due diligence, onboarding and integration processes for schools and
  organisations joining the Trust.
• Produce
  high-quality business cases, bids, proposals and strategic reports to
  support growth, sustainability and organisational development.

Key Requirements

• Significant
  experience in a strategic development, programme leadership or
  growth-focused role within education or a related public sector
  environment.
• Proven
  track record of successfully delivering complex projects, expansions,
  acquisitions or organisational growth initiatives.
• Excellent
  communication, influencing and relationship-building skills, with the
  ability to engage stakeholders at all levels.
• Strong
  project and programme management expertise, including experience
  developing business cases and managing multiple priorities.
• A
  genuine commitment to inclusive education and improving outcomes for
  children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities.