Director of Compliance

• Sapientia Education Trust
• Address: Wymondham, Norfolk NR18 9SZ
• Salary: Competitive
• Hours: Full time
• Contract: Permanent
• Reference: 0930

Sapientia Education Trust is a successful and ambitious Multi-Academy Trust serving schools across Norfolk and Suffolk. Established in 2016, the Trust has grown to 23 schools, educating almost 9,000 pupils across primary, secondary, sixth form and boarding provision. With further schools expected to join in the coming years, we are entering an exciting new phase of growth, development and opportunity.

Our central teams provide expert support across education, finance, human resources, governance, estates, ICT, safeguarding and health and safety. Together, we work in partnership with school leaders to remove barriers, drive improvement and ensure our schools can focus on delivering exceptional educational outcomes for every pupil.

The role

This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced governance, compliance or education professional to join the Executive Team and play a key strategic role in shaping the future of a growing and highly regarded Trust.

Reporting directly to the CEO and working closely with the Board of Trustees, you will lead the Trust's compliance, governance and data protection functions, ensuring that statutory obligations are met and that robust systems of assurance, risk management and accountability are embedded across the organisation.

As Director of Compliance, you will oversee Trust-wide governance arrangements, provide strategic advice to Trustees and senior leaders, maintain the Trust's assurance framework and risk registers, and lead on data protection and GDPR compliance. You will also play a pivotal role in supporting Trust growth, leading the compliance and governance requirements associated with academisation projects and new schools joining the Trust.

Who we are looking for

We are seeking a confident and highly organised leader who can build strong professional relationships, provide credible advice to senior stakeholders and maintain the highest standards of governance and compliance.

The successful candidate will have

• Significant experience within education compliance, governance, school support operations or a similar professional environment.
• Strong knowledge of governance, statutory compliance and regulatory requirements.
• Knowledge and practical experience of UK GDPR and data protection requirements.
• Excellent communication, report-writing and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience of working strategically whilst also managing operational priorities.
• The ability to influence, advise and support Boards, Committees and senior leaders.
• A relevant Level 5 qualification or equivalent experience.

Why join us?

• Join a thriving and growing Multi-Academy Trust with an ambitious vision for the future.
• Work directly with the CEO and Board of Trustees in a high-profile strategic leadership role.
• Help shape governance and compliance arrangements across 23 schools.
• Play a key role in future Trust growth and academisation projects.
• Access excellent professional development opportunities and join a highly skilled and supportive central team.
• Local Government Pension Scheme and a competitive benefits package.

To find out more

Please read the Recruitment Pack (pdf).

For an informal discussion contact Briony Ridgwell, Executive Assistant to the CEO, on 01953 609012.

How to apply

To apply, please visit our website and complete an online application form, along with a supporting letter of no more than 800 words, detailing how your experience equips you for the role.

Closing date: 11.30 pm, 18 October 2026.

Promoted as FJ (Featured Job) on Suffolk Jobs Direct.

Applications will be considered upon receipt; therefore, early applications are encouraged.

We reserve the right to interview before the closing date should we receive a high volume of suitable applications.

The Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All applicants will be required to undergo appropriate safeguarding and pre-employment checks. In accordance with Keeping Children Safe in Education, references will be sought prior to interview.