Are you an inspiring educational leader who is committed to Church School Education and wishes to make a real difference in the lives of children, schools, and communities? If so, this could be your next calling. We are seeking a visionary and faith-driven Diocesan Director of Education (DDE) to lead our education work across the vibrant and diverse Diocese of Birmingham. With 52 Church of England schools and academies at the heart of our mission, this role offers the opportunity to influence, inspire, and nurture flourishing education rooted in Christian love and purpose. About the Role As our DDE, you’ll: Provide strategic leadership for our Diocesan Board of Education and team of officers Champion the distinctively Christian ethos of our schools and nurture leaders who bring faith to life in their communities. Work collaboratively with headteachers, governors, clergy, and national partners to shape the future of Church school education. Represent Church of England Birmingham regionally and nationally, ensuring our voice is strong and respected in the ever-evolving educational landscape. This is a high-trust, high-impact role; one that blends strategy, relationship-building, and spiritual leadership. About You We’re looking for someone who: Is an experienced headteacher or equivalent, with a proven record of inspiring excellence and enabling others to flourish. Is a practising Christian, rooted in prayer and passionate about the mission of the Church through education. Brings both strategic vision and pastoral heart, able to navigate complexity, lead teams, and build strong partnerships. Can communicate hope, purpose, and faith with clarity and confidence. You’ll find here a Diocese that’s innovative, collaborative, and deeply committed to transforming lives through growing churches and flourishing schools. Want to Know More? Please view the Job information Pack attached. We warmly encourage informal conversations before applying. Contact: The Very Revd Matt Thompson – [dean@birminghamcathedral.com] Sarah Smith, current Director of Education – [sarahs@cofebirmingham.com] Closing Date for Applications: 12 noon, 14 November 2025 Interviews: 3 December 2025 at Bishop’s Croft, Harborne This is a post to which an Occupational Requirement under paragraph 1 of Schedule 9 to the Equality Act 2010 applies, the requirement being that the post holder is a practising Christian. The Church of England Birmingham is committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive community - a place where all can be themselves and bring their unique identity to their ministry and/or work. We welcome applications from any individuals who feel that they meet the person specification for any post, in particular from those who are currently under-represented in our staff teams, such as those from Global Majority Heritage or UK Minority Ethnic backgrounds, those with visible or invisible disabilities and those who identify as LGBTQI. The Church of England Birmingham is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. All post holders are expected to share this commitment. In line with this, the successful postholder’s appointment will be subject to receipt of satisfactory references and an Enhanced DBS Check with Barred List Checks, as well as undertake the relevant Safeguarding Training.