CEO and Principal
The Princethorpe Foundation
Salary: Very competitive, by negotiation
Contract: Full time, permanent
Location: Warwickshire
The closing date for applications is: Monday 23 February 2026 at 9.00am
The Princethorpe Foundation is seeking to appoint an exceptional CEO and Principal to lead the Foundation into its next chapter, following the retirement of Ed Hester in August 2027 after 16 years of outstanding leadership.
This is a rare and prestigious opportunity to lead a thriving family of schools with a proud heritage, a strong Christian ethos and an ambitious vision for the future.
The Princethorpe Foundation is a well-established and highly respected group of independent, co-educational day schools, educating around 1,400 pupils from nine months to eighteen years.
The Foundation comprises Little Crackers Nursery, Crackley Hall School, Crescent School and Princethorpe College. Each school has its own distinct character, while sharing a common commitment to academic excellence, outstanding pastoral care and a rich co-curricular life.
Rooted in Catholic values and Christian principles, the Foundation is known for its strong sense of family, warmth and inclusivity. Pupils are supported to flourish academically, socially and personally in an environment that is caring, aspirational and forward-thinking.
Reporting to the Chair of Trustees and leading the Foundation Executive Committee, the CEO and Principal will shape and deliver a compelling strategic vision for the future of the Foundation.
You will provide inspirational, visible and collaborative leadership across all schools, working closely with Heads, trustees, staff and the wider community to ensure the Foundation remains innovative, sustainable and high performing.
This is a pivotal role, combining educational leadership with strong commercial and organisational oversight. You will champion academic and pastoral excellence, safeguard the welfare of pupils, and lead the Foundation confidently through future opportunities and challenges.
As CEO and Principal, you will:
* Champion and embody the Catholic and Christian ethos of the Foundation
* Provide clear strategic vision and lead the development and delivery of the Foundation’s strategic plan
* Inspire and support Heads and senior leaders to deliver the highest standards of education and care
* Act as a visible ambassador for the Foundation with pupils, parents, staff, trustees, alumni and donors
* Lead on safeguarding, governance, compliance and risk management Oversee financial planning, sustainability and long-term viability
* Drive collaboration, innovation and best practice across all schools
* Promote staff wellbeing, professional development and succession planning
* Strengthen the Foundation’s profile, admissions strategy and external partnerships
We are seeking a leader of stature, integrity and imagination, with a proven, significant track record in senior educational leadership.
You will be visible, approachable and values-driven, with the ability to inspire trust, build strong relationships and lead with clarity and compassion.
For more information, please visit
How to Apply
To arrange an informal and confidential discussion about the role, please contact:
Laura McGunigle, Satis Education - 07931 384683 or laura@satiseducation.co.uk
To apply, please complete the application form and submit a supporting statement of no more than two A4 pages.
* Long-listing interviews will take place week commencing Monday 9 March 2026 via Teams.
* Final interviews will be held on Monday 23 March 2026 at Princethorpe College.
Safeguarding
The Foundation is committed to equal opportunities and safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.
Applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.
The Princethorpe Foundation. Registered office Princethorpe College, Rugby. CV23 9PX. Company registered in England & Wales and Limited by Guarantee Number 4177718. Registered Charity Number 1087124