Chris Kirk, a leading education consultant, has been put forward for the role of general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders.

He has been nominated as the association’s preferred candidate for the job, but could face an election if other candidates come forward.

Mr Kirk has worked in leadership posts at PwC, where he was responsible for its education consulting services to schools, colleges and the government.

In 2006 he was seconded to lead a project for the then National College for School Leadership to address the leadership supply crisis.

He is also a former chief executive of GEMS Education Solutions, the part of the GEMS schools chain which provides consultancy services.

‘Experience and skills’

Sian Carr, ASCL president and chair of the association’s nomination committee, said: “We felt that Chris has the experience and skills to ensure that ASCL is able to play a key role in helping to shape future education policy and provide excellent representation for the association’s members.

 “He will be able to provide the leadership which enables ASCL to take forward our vision of a school-led self-improving system that creates the conditions in which every child and young person can realise achievement, no matter what their social background.”

Further nominations for the post will be invited from members. If there are further nominations, an election will be held in December and January and the result declared in February. No election is required if Mr Kirk’s nomination is uncontested.

ASCL is currently led by interim general secretary Malcolm Trobe, who will continue to serve in this role until the new general secretary is appointed.

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