Chief Strategy Officer

CRANLEIGH SCHOOL CHIEF STRATEGY OFFICER Cranleigh School is one of the UK's leading independent co-educational boarding and day schools, educating around 1,050 pupils across its senior and prep schools. Set within 280 acres of Surrey countryside, Cranleigh combines a strong sense of heritage with a progressive and ambitious outlook. Under the leadership of Head Sam Price, the School is in a position of considerable strength, with rising pupil numbers, an expanding international schools' portfolio and a clear vision for future growth and development. This newly created and critical role offers an exciting opportunity acting as the Head’s senior partner, translating Cranleigh’s strategy into clear, affordable and deliverable action. As the School’s commercial adviser, bringing new skills and experience to the Executive, the Chief Strategy Officer will drive, shape and implement the next phase of strategic development, including delivery of ambitious estates projects and supporting further international expansion, whilst ensuring continued UK operational and financial success. Reporting to the Head and, through the Chair of the Finance Committee, to the Governors, the CSO will lead planning, finance, estates, commercial activity and IT. Working closely with the Director of Operations and the Executive Director of Cranleigh International, they will ensure strategic alignment and effective execution as well as strong leadership of a large support team. Candidates will bring a proven record of executive leadership, strategic planning, commercial success and financial control in complex organisations. They will be an outstanding communicator and diplomatic negotiator, collaborative and able to build relationships, deliver results and inspire high-performing teams. Prior experience in education is not essential, but candidates must demonstrate ambition, drive and exceptional interpersonal abilities, together with empathy for independent education and a commitment to Cranle