Director of Development and Engagement

We are seeking to appoint a dynamic and forward-thinking Director of Development & Engagement to lead and shape Walhampton’s marketing and admissions strategies and play an integral role in implementing Project 26, the School’s development plan. Reporting to the Head, the postholder will ensure that the School continues to attract high calibre pupils and will demonstrate the agility and strategic skills to respond to future challenges and opportunities across the independent school sector.

We are looking for an enthusiastic and creative individual, responsible for nurturing strong links with our Walhampton Community which includes alumni, current and former parents, current and former staff, and other well-wishers, keeping our community engaged with the life of the school, as well as promoting a culture of ‘giving back’ in terms of time, talent, and philanthropy.

The 4 Rs (Recruitment; Retention; Reputation; Resource) will be fundamental to this role. This is a new role at the School, and the postholder will provide strategic direction and flawless delivery of marketing, communications and admissions activities. Reporting to the Head, the Director of Development & Engagement will be a member of the Senior Leadership Team. The successful candidate will provide inspirational leadership to the Registrar to ensure we remain the first-choice prep school in the area. You will also develop new and innovative ways to reach more pupils who would benefit from the Walhampton School Foundation Trust, our transformational Bursary scheme.

This role is pivotal to the strategic development of Project 26, as we explore opportunities for growth within the external market over the next 5-10 years. You will take the lead in developing and delivering outstanding marketing and communications plans and will build and maintain excellent relationships with all key stakeholders, both internal and external.

This varied and fast-paced role will most likely be suited to someone who has an instinctive feel for the School’s customers and their needs and bring with them the relevant skills to undertake this exciting job.

The role is full time (40 hours per week), 52 weeks per year.  Flexible working applications (of not less than 0.8 FTE) will be considered and can be discussed at interview.  Due to the nature of prep boarding life and alumni engagement, flexibility is required; there will be a need for some evening and weekend work for which time-off ‘in lieu’ will be granted.  The role will be based at the school although occasional working from home would be considered.

Full details of the role and person specification can be found in the attached Candidate Information Brochure.

To apply for this position, candidates must complete our online application form by clicking 'Apply Now' in the top right hand corner of this page. Alternatively, an application form is available to download from our website here or by contacting HR@walhampton.com.

Applications will only be accepted from candidates completing an application form. Please do not include a CV.

The closing date for applications is Monday 2^nd October (09:00)

Interviews will be held on Friday 13^th October 2023.

Further information about Walhampton is available at www.walhampton.com

Applications will be considered on an ongoing basis and therefore we reserve the right to close the role on appointment.

Walhampton School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The appointment is subject to satisfactory pre-employment checks in accordance with the relevant statutory guidance, including an enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references, proof of identity and qualifications, and a satisfactory medical report.

We are committed to attracting and retaining the very best staff, ensuring that our staff body reflects the diversity of modern Britain. Acknowledging a lack of ethnic diversity within our staff community, we particularly encourage applications from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic candidates. Appointments will be made on merit, following a fair and transparent process.