Governance Manager

Bolton Council; Bolton; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A Multi-Academy Trust in Northern Ireland is seeking a Governance Manager to support effective governance across its schools. The ideal candidate will have governance or clerking experience, strong organizational skills, and a collaborative approach. This role offers continuous professional development, career progression, and a supportive work environment. Applicants should be proactive and committed to high standards. The position includes generous annual leave and wellbeing support initiatives.

Benefits

Continuous Professional Development

Career Progression Opportunities

Wellbeing Training

Generous Annual Leave

Employee Assistance Programme

Qualifications

• Experience in governance or a related professional role.
• Enjoys working collaboratively and supporting others.
• Highly organized and able to work independently.
• Commitment to integrity and high standards.

Responsibilities

• Support the Trust Board and its committees effectively.
• Provide advice on governance and regulatory matters.
• Coordinate meetings and maintain records to high standards.
• Aid Local Governing Bodies in their roles.
• Contribute to governance development across the Trust.

Skills

Governance experience

Clerking experience

Organizational skills

Proactive attitude

Job description

15 HOURS PER WEEK

PERMANENT Contract

TERM TIME PLUS 3 DAYS

ASAP

The Bishop Fraser Trust is a growing and ambitious Multi-Academy Trust, and we are seeking an exceptional Governance Managerto join our central team. This is a unique and rewarding opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping and supporting effective governance as our Trust continues to expand.

We are proud of our collaborative culture and commitment to investing in people. The successful candidate will benefit from high-quality CPD, with opportunities to develop deep expertise in academy governance, leadership, and regulatory compliance.

About the Role:

Working closely with the CEO, Trustees, and Local Governing Bodies, you will provide expert professional guidance and practical support to ensure strong, compliant, and effective governance across the Trust.

We Are Seeking a Candidate Who:

• Has experience in governance, clerking, or a similar professional role (education experience is advantageous but not essential).
• Enjoys working collaboratively and supporting others to achieve their best.
• Is highly organised, proactive, and able to work independently.
• Shares our commitment to integrity, high standards, and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities:

• Supporting the Trust Board and its committees to operate effectively and confidently.
• Providing clear, professional advice on governance, compliance, and regulatory matters.
• Coordinating meetings, agendas, papers, and records to the highest standard.
• Supporting Local Governing Bodies, enabling governors and trustees to feel informed and confident in their roles.
• Contributing to the ongoing development and improvement of governance across a growing Trust.

What We Offer:

• Continuous Professional Development (CPD): Access to National College training, subject‑specific CPD, leadership pathways and technical mentoring from experienced colleagues.
• Career Progression: Clear pathways for growth, from early careers to leadership roles. We use a ‘touchbase’ informal approach to focus on professional development as well as an annual career conversation with your manager!
• Wellbeing & Support: Leadership training focused on wellbeing, mental health resources, and staff networks.
• Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI): Commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace, with ongoing EDI training and initiatives.
• Long weekend off in November for teachers and term time support staff!
• Generous annual leave entitlement of 25 days for all year‑round support staff. This increases to 28 days after 5 years!
• A paid premium to a Healthcare Cash Plan to claim back contributions towards dental, optical and other medical costs via UK Healthcare.
• 24/7 access to an Employee Assistance Programme.
• Amazing benefits and discounts via UK Healthcare.
• A supportive, values‑driven trust with a collaborative Central IT team.
• Opportunities to develop specialist skills and contribute to trust‑wide projects.
• A modern working environment with access to enterprise‑level Microsoft technology.

Application Information:

For more information, visit our website The Bishop Fraser Trust - Home or contact the HR team at [e-mail]

To apply, please complete the attached application form via the link:

Governance Manager | SAMpeople Recruit

Please do not send CVs as they will not be considered.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if sufficient suitable applications are received.

The Bishop Fraser Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is subject to enhanced DBS clearance and pre‑employment checks. We are an equal opportunities employer. References will be sought prior to interview.

Closing Date: Monday 19th January 2026 @ 9.00am