Trustees
Amplify Education Trust approached Moon Charity Practice to appoint two new Trustees following the merger of Cathedral Schools Trust (CST) and Trust in Learning Academies (TiLA). Bringing together 22 schools and 12,000 pupils across Bristol, the newly formed Trust wanted to strengthen its Board with expertise in two priority areas: the strategic use of AI and technology and Special Educational Needs (SEN).
Moon Charity Practice was appointed to lead a combined advertised and executive search campaign to identify candidates who could bring the skills, experience and perspectives needed to support the merger.
The challenge
The search focused on two highly specific skillsets. The Board was seeking individuals with the experience to contribute at a strategic level, while also being willing to commit time to a voluntary Trustee role. Finding candidates with senior SEN leadership experience proved particularly challenging, while the growing demand for AI expertise meant identifying candidates with the right mix of technical knowledge and governance capability required a targeted approach.
To maximise reach, Moon combined proactive headhunting with a national advertising campaign, ensuring both active and passive candidates were considered.
The outcome
Moon delivered a strong shortlist and following interviews the appointment of two new Trustees:
Deborah Hurley - Trustee | SEN Leadership, Careers and Health & Safety Expertise
Deborah Hurley brought extensive experience in education, careers, employability, and supporting learners with additional needs. Her appointment strengthened the Board's understanding of inclusion, pupil wellbeing and SEN provision.
Ian Nabney - Trustee | Technology, Digital Transformation and AI Expertise
Ian Nabney brought specialist expertise in technology, data science and artificial intelligence, with experience helping organisations understand and apply emerging technologies strategically. His appointment provides the Board with valuable insight as it considers how AI and digital innovation can support decision-making, governance and future organisational development.
“Moon Charity Practice took the time to understand my background and motivations, making the entire experience engaging and rewarding. I’m delighted to be contributing to Amplify Education at such an important time for school.”
“Moon Executive Search contacted me at exactly the right time, when I was looking for an opportunity to use my SEND and education expertise closer to home after many years of working nationally.”
“Following the merger, it was important that we appointed Trustees with specialist expertise in key strategic areas to support the long-term development of the Trust. The appointments have added valuable expertise at an important stage in our journey.”
“Moon Charity Practice understood the specific expertise we were seeking, and we were delighted that they were able to deliver on the sought-after skillsets we required. The appointments of Deborah and Ian have significantly strengthened our Board and provided exactly the specialist expertise we identified as priorities.”
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