Conducting an Executive Search for a Head of Junior School in an Independent, Co-Educational, Grammar School
The Brief
Having previously partnered with Future Leadership, a leading Grammar School in Melbourne sought the expertise of Liz Jones and the Executive Search team to appoint a new Head of Junior School.
Following the retirement of the previous Head, the school set out to find a collaborative and innovative leader to oversee its dynamic Junior School. Reporting directly to the Principal, the Head is responsible for delivering high-quality education through an inquiry-based learning approach and a curriculum tailored to reflect the school’s vision and mission. The ideal candidate would bring a strong background in educational standards and contemporary assessment, along with the ability to craft and effectively communicate a compelling vision for the future.
The Process
Leveraging Future Leadership’s extensive network of known candidates and contacts in the education sector, extensive targeted connections were made to identify appropriately qualified candidates. The search process, led by Liz Jones was supported by Executive Search team.
Briefing sessions with the School’s leadership team provided important insights into the specific nuances of the role and the culture of the Junior School. Drawing on recent search experience, the executive search firm leveraged a well-established network of referral partners and high-calibre candidates with strong backgrounds in Junior School leadership. The search was supported by an advertising campaign, ultimately resulting in a comprehensive long list from which the school selected six candidates to interview in the first round.
Candidates were assessed based on their experience in a large school setting, along with their ability to bring ideas, imagination, and innovation to the school.
The assessment process included several stages:
Key steps included:
- Initial Screening: Candidates were initially screened based on their resumes and cover letters to ensure they met the basic qualifications and experience required for the role.
- Preliminary Interviews: Suitable candidates were invited for preliminary interviews to further assess their suitability. These interviews focused on their leadership style, educational philosophy, and ability to innovate. Following these interviews a Shortlist of six candidates was provided to the client.
- Reference Checks: References were checked to verify the candidates past performance and gather insights into their leadership capabilities and interpersonal skills.
- Panel Interviews: Shortlisted candidates were invited for first round panel interviews with the selection committee with three candidates progressing to second round interviews.
- Final Assessment: The final assessment involved a comprehensive evaluation of each candidate’s performance throughout the process, including feedback from the selection committee and 360 reference checks.
Throughout the process, Future Leadership maintained close communication with the school to ensure that the search was aligned with their expectations and requirements.
The Outcome
The selection panel appointed a candidate who brings a wealth of experience and a clear, forward-looking vision for the Junior School. Their leadership strengths are particularly evident in their ability to build trust and rapport with staff, fostering a cohesive, collaborative, and supportive working environment. With a strong focus on relationship-building and team development, the appointee is well-positioned to lead the Junior School through its next phase of growth and innovation.
Candidate Testimony
“I have recently had the privilege of engaging with Fisher Leadership. Throughout the rigorous recruitment process, Liz Jones and her team were extremely engaging, passionate and professional. The process, transparent and timely communication and support were exemplary. I would highly recommend Fisher Leadership for any employers or candidates.”
Candidate, Head of Junior School
