The Brief
Future Leadership had a long-standing relationship with the organisation, having appointed the previous two CEOs and several other senior executive positions. They were well positioned to support the appointment of a new CEO in early 2024. Reporting to the Board, the CEO is focused on fostering and promoting the reputation of the organisation, while maintaining a broad network across the most senior levels of education and government and overseeing the development of new opportunities.
The organisation sought a high-profile leader with extensive knowledge of the Australian education sector and its structures, systems, and processes at Commonwealth and/or State and Territory levels. They sought an appointee who would drive a national vision, developing and maintaining relationships at all levels to build influence and credibility, while also delivering a sense of unity and cohesion.
The briefing process identified that the incoming CEO would present as highly credible within the teaching profession, combined with a progressive mindset and a focus on delivering outcomes.
The Process
Future Leadership developed a search strategy targeting potential candidates across Australia and select international jurisdictions including New Zealand, the UK, the USA, Canada, and Hong Kong, with a focus on Australian expatriates wishing to return home. High-calibre candidates with specific and relevant experience in education at a senior leadership level, along with prospective candidates from jurisdictions with demonstrated expertise in education or government, were considered.
The search process was supported by national print media and online advertising. Future Leadership managed the full selection process, including panel interviews, reference checking, and development of the selection report. A key component of the process was the requirement for the appointment to be approved by the national Minister for Education and by the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet.
The Outcome
A new CEO was appointed to the role and will commence in October 2024. The appointee will join the organisation from a senior leadership position within a state Department for Education, where they are currently serving as Secretary. Having recently been a board member of the organisation, the individual is already well acquainted with its operations and strategic direction.
Over the past two decades, the appointee has held key policy roles across state government departments, including Premier and Cabinet and Education, leading efforts to support children and young people in achieving positive futures and brighter lives.
