Play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the magistracy — and through it, the health of the justice system.
We are seeking an inspiring leader to become the next Chief Executive of the Magistrates’ Association, the only independent voice of magistrates in England and Wales.
The MA is a Royal Charter charity with around 12,000 members. For more than a century we have championed magistrates, supported their development, and spoken truth to power on behalf of the magistracy and the wider justice system.
This is a unique opportunity to lead a small, committed team and a wide network of trustees and volunteers at a moment of real change. After years of decline, magistrate numbers are growing again and their role is expanding. Following a major programme of modernisation, the MA is stronger, more visible, and ready to build on this momentum.
As Chief Executive, you will:
-
Provide strategic leadership, working closely with the Board of Trustees
-
Be a visible and authoritative advocate with government, judiciary, Parliament and the media
-
Oversee the delivery of services and support that matter to members
-
Lead the growth of our membership, engaging new magistrates and re-connecting with those who have left
-
Ensure strong financial and organisational management of the Association
We are looking for an experienced and credible leader with:
-
A track record of strategic leadership and organisational development
-
Strong financial and business acumen
-
The ability to influence at the highest levels and act as a public spokesperson
-
Experience of growing a membership body or comparable organisation
-
A clear commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
The Director of Policy, Strategy and Governance is a new leadership role at the forefront of shaping and communicating our strategic direction.
As a member of the executive team reporting to the CEO, the Director will work with school leaders, other key external partners and teams within Camden Learning to drive high standards and grow a school-led system striving for both excellence and equity.
The Director will be responsible for leading, developing and communicating Camden Learning’s strategic direction, including plans for future growth and success. This entails keeping abreast of current developments, not only identifying opportunities and trends but also developing and supporting innovative approaches while ensuring alignment with Camden Learning’s goals.
The Director will be responsible for overall governance effectiveness, as well as provide strategic leadership for school governor services, ensuring effective support for governors in their key strategic and statutory roles. This includes establishing high-quality development and training programmes, the provision of a clerking service and bespoke support for governing bodies, as needed.
We are looking for a leader who can take ownership of shaping this role from day one – a strategic thinker, a skilled communicator, and a champion of inclusive governance. This is a rare opportunity to influence the future of education in Camden and beyond. Your leadership will help us tell our story, measure our impact, and ensure that our strategy remains both ambitious and grounded in the realities of our schools.
Key dates
- Applications close: 9am Mon 6 October
- First round interviews: Tue 21 and Wed 22 October (online)
- Final round interviews: Tue 28 October (in person at 5 Pancras Square, London)
- Start date: As soon as possible (January 2026), to be agreed with the successful candidate.
ImpactEd Consulting is acting as recruitment advisor to Camden Learning on this appointment.
Camden Learning is a schools-led partnership. We aim to drive improvement for all, guided by values of excellence and social equity.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.