Head of Programming

The Head of Programming will set the creative direction for CST’s conference and events portfolio, shaping ideas, themes and experiences that resonate with school trust leaders. This role is responsible for turning complex issues — in education, public service and wider society — into compelling, well-crafted programmes that feel distinctive, relevant and worth attending.

The Head of Programming combines strategic oversight with hands-on creative leadership: curating speakers, designing formats and building narratives that challenge thinking and spark new connections. The role will lead and develop CST’s conference producers, building a high performing team with the capability to design and deliver consistently strong programmes that are intellectually sharp, well-paced and grounded in what the sector needs now to deliver the best outcomes for children.

Key responsibilities

• Set the overall programming strategy for CST’s conference portfolio, aligned with organisational priorities and audience needs

• Lead the development of conference themes, narratives and session architecture

• Ensure programmes are coherent, purposeful and drive engagement and learning

• Ensure programmes are completed to time and budget

• Design and test innovative formats that build engagement and connection

• Keep abreast of event trends in the wider sector to ensure that CST’s offer continues to be compelling and unique

Speaker curation and content development

• Identify, secure and brief high-calibre speakers from across education and related sectors

• Collaborate closely with CST’s Professional Community Chairs and CST’s system, commercial and charity partners to design insightful and enjoyable conference experiences for delegates

• Shape session content with speakers to ensure relevance, clarity and practical value for CST’s audiences

• Ensure diversity of perspectives, backgrounds and voices across programmes

Audience insight and quality assurance

• Maintain a clear understanding of the current challenges facing school trusts and audience needs

• Use insight from members, partners and previous events to inform programme design

• Set and uphold quality standards for all conference content and delivery

• Evaluate programme effectiveness and use insights for continuous improvement.

Cross team collaboration

• Work closely with colleagues in events, marketing, partnerships and policy to ensure that programmes are deliverable, well communicated and commercially successful

• Align conference content with CST’s wider community and professional development offers

• Support sponsorship and partnership conversations by shaping compelling programme opportunities

Leadership and delivery

• Lead the end-to-end programming process from concept to delivery 

• Manage timelines, decision points and speaker processes to ensure that programmes are delivered on schedule and effectively marketed

• Provide on the day support for speakers, ensuring smooth delivery and strong audience experience.