Chief Strategy Officer
Cranleigh School
Surrey
- Job type:
- Full Time, Permanent
- Apply by:
- 21 September 2026
Job overview
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 Cranleigh’s aims and ethos.
Interested candidates are invited to contact RSAcademics in the first instance to arrange a confidential discussion with Nina Lambert: ninalambert@rsacademics.com
Further information and details of how to apply can be found on the RSAcademics website at https://www.rsacademics.com/current-vacancies/chief-strategy-officer-cranleigh/
PLEASE DO NOT APPLY VIA THIS WEBSITE. ALL APPLICATIONS AND ENQUIRIES MUST GO THROUGH RSACADEMICS.
The closing date for applications is 10.00am UK time on Monday 21 September 2026.
Cranleigh School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and applicants must be willing to undergo appropriate child protection screening, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.
This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020.
The safeguarding responsibilities of this post are detailed in the candidate information brochure.
RSAcademics is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and to promoting diversity, and inclusion in schools.
Attached documents
About Cranleigh School
Set in 280 acres of the Surrey Hills, Cranleigh is more than a school – it is a living, breathing community where Ex Cultur Robur truly comes to life: from our culture comes strength. Founded in 1865 and proudly co-educational today, Cranleigh has schools across the UK, UAE and China and blends deep-rooted tradition with an outward-looking, progressive spirit. At the heart of our red-brick quadrangle and clock tower lies a campus alive with energy, friendship and shared purpose. With pupils aged 3–18, a mix of day and boarding life, and a strong sense of belonging among staff, Cranleigh is a place where people put down roots and flourish. Life here is busy, joyful and full of opportunity – whether on the sports fields, in rehearsal rooms, classrooms or common rooms – and there is always something happening that brings our community together.
Location
Cranleigh’s 280 acre site, situated eight miles from Guildford near the Surrey - West Sussex border, is part of Cranleigh Village and within forty-five minutes of London.
Heathrow and Gatwick airports are within easy access; there is a fast, regular train service from Guildford to Waterloo.
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