Conducting an executive search for a Director of Professional Practice and Research to advance educational leadership and innovation in a an independent catholic school for girls
The Brief
Future Leadership™ was engaged by a renowned independent school to appoint a Director of Professional Practice and Research (DPPR). The newly created role aimed to elevate the school’s academic and research profile by fostering a culture of continuous professional development, innovation, and evidence-based teaching practices.
The appointee would work closely with the leadership team to design and implement strategies that support teaching excellence and align with the school’s commitment to nurturing lifelong learners.
Candidate net Promote Score
Future Leadership combines truly personalised relationships with innovative technology solutions to ensure an approachable and efficient process for all our Net Promoter Score across clients, successful candidates and unsuccessful candidates is well above industry standard.
Candidates supported every year
We maintain genuine relationships with past candidates and continue to support them with leadership solutions long term, after they land their role.
Senior Women Appointed since 2002
Over half of the executive search assignments undertaken by our team have resulted in the appointment of outstanding female or LGBTQI+ leaders to high profile roles.
Candidate Retention Rate for 12 months since 2002
Our thorough briefing process and ability to engage passive candidates mean that we go to great lengths to find the right person for the role – long term!
The Process
The search for this pivotal role required identifying candidates with a deep understanding of pedagogical innovation and experience in professional learning. Key steps included:
- Comprehensive Talent Mapping: Future Leadership™ conducted a targeted search across academic institutions and education leadership networks to identify suitable candidates.
- Rigorous Assessment Process: Candidates were assessed on their ability to lead professional learning initiatives, foster research capabilities, and inspire collaboration among educators.
- Collaborative Panel Interviews: Shortlisted candidates participated in panel interviews, focusing on their vision for professional practice and their ability to integrate research into teaching methodologies.
Emerging Capabilities
Strategy and Purpose
Designed and led strategies to embed professional learning and research into the school’s academic framework, aligned with its vision and long-term goals.
Innovation and Creativity
Promoted innovative teaching practices and research-based methodologies to drive continuous improvement in education.
Stakeholder Relations
Built collaborative relationships with educators, students, and the wider school community to foster a shared commitment to professional practice.
Organisational Capability
Developed and implemented initiatives to enhance teaching capabilities, addressing skill gaps and promoting growth.
Critical Thinking
Applied research and evidence-based insights to refine teaching practices and inform strategic decisions.
The Outcome
A highly accomplished educational leader was appointed as the Director of Professional Practice and Research.
The successful candidate brought extensive experience in developing and implementing professional learning frameworks, fostering collaboration among educators, and driving research-informed teaching practices. Their appointment is expected to strengthen the school’s commitment to innovation and academic excellence.
