4,751 Ceo jobs in the United Kingdom

CEO

Job Description

Closing date: 3 November 2025

‘Stimulation not congratulation’

D&AD is a registered charity whose mission is to stimulate, celebrate and enable excellence in commercial creativity, in the belief that this creates better outcomes for all concerned - commercially, culturally, socially, politically and environmentally; and to campaign for a fairer, more diverse, better gender-balanced industry.

Our main areas of activity are awards, events and education and we serve a global community of creative practitioners from our headquarters in Shoreditch.

The money D&AD makes from its commercial activities - Awards, Masterclasses and Partnerships - is channeled back into the industry we serve, mainly via the New Blood program, which provides a conveyor belt of talent into the industry, and which is comprised of, inter alia, the New Blood Awards, the New Blood Festival, the Academy, Shift – a twelve week night school for people without qualifications who have the talent and desire to enter the industry - and Shift Studio.

Reporting

The CEO reports to a Board of Trustees, who are in the main awarded and senior creative practitioners, and a Chair. They lead a team of around 40 people. The senior management team at D&AD is experienced and well-established, comprised of a COO (Donal Keenan) and five directors.

Industry challenges and primary responsibilities

The awards industry is overpopulated and the competition is stiff. D&AD's reputation as the most prestigious award in the sector is based on the degree of difficulty involved in winning a Pencil, its British heritage and the integrity of its jurors and judging process. This reputation is by far our greatest asset. It follows that the first responsibility of D&AD's CEO is to act as the guardian of the brand's reputation, mission, values, and behaviour.

Like many industries the advertising and design sector has gone through unprecedented changes in recent years and continues to do so. The pandemic accelerated some of these and created a confused situation. AI and other digital developments have made the future of the conventional parts of the advertising and design sector uncertain. Plotting a future course is therefore challenging. But adapting to the changing landscape in order to stay relevant by providing valuable leadership, advice, support, products and services to our global creative community - wherever it is situated - is crucial.

However, the area of D&AD’s activities that perhaps best defines us, differentiates us from our main competitors and signals our value to the industry is our commitment to creative training and education for creative practitioners, and the nurturing and development of young talent. Whatever else happens it’s likely that these programs and activities will need to be amplified in the future.

Detailed role definition

First, foremost and crucially the CEO must love and cherish D&AD’s purpose, mission and values, and the community we serve. They must be capable of looking beyond the confusion currently afflicting parts of our business and boldly plotting a course that gives D&AD a leading role in the industry of the future.

The CEO will lead from the front as the main visible face of D&AD (alongside the President, Trustees and other senior staff), being/becoming an expert on the industry, a spokesperson for it and a go-to speaker, advisor, influencer and commentator. The CEO will be capable of writing and speaking on important industry topics and, as such, have/earn the respect of senior industry practitioners, clients, D&AD partners and other stakeholders. The CEO will, in promoting creative excellence, fairness and diversity, believe in, exemplify and live the values of the Organisation.  The CEO will have extensive commercial and managerial experience.

Leadership and delegation

Beyond these key qualities the CEO will lead the team on all key management functions, delegating appropriately and clearly setting expectations, goals, targets and performance metrics for the organisation overall and the senior management team.

Performance

The CEO will be responsible for performance as measured against the goals outlined above and, of course, financially; as well as in terms of setting a strategic course that future- proofs the organisation, in as much as that is possible in the current environment.

Creating culture

The CEO will take the lead on creating an appropriately dynamic and richly creative culture - one that attracts talent and optimises performance. D&AD is a springboard to other things for many of our people and there is a large and influential D&AD diaspora. So an important aspect of this in 2025 is to encourage D&AD’s people to enjoy the environment and to take advantage of the stimulating and educational experiences on offer, to broaden and develop professionally, and to enjoy and value their D&AD experience.

Personal style

They will have a confident personal style - open, flexible, non-hierarchical, accessible, personally unselfish, keen to promote the interests of talented colleagues and ultimately ambitious for the organisation rather than themselves. They are likely to have had experience in leading an organisation in or adjacent to the creative industries.

Time commitment

D&AD is open to discussion when it comes to the amount of time needed to fulfil the role – previous incumbents have worked a flexible three day week. As such, it might well suit someone looking to make a lifestyle change; or someone returning to the industry after a break.

Finally

Affection and respect for the community we serve and an evident interest in creativity in all its forms and its practitioners are vital requisites. D&AD is a very special organisation and leading it is a very special privilege.

Salary package and benefits

On application and by negotiation.

D&AD is committed to diversity, equality, equity, inclusion and respect for all.  Providing a work environment in which all employees are treated with fairness, respect and dignity and which is free of discrimination, victimisation, bullying and harassment.   At D&AD we are interested in every individual bringing their ‘Whole Self’ to work and this includes you! Please email to let us know if you need any reasonable adjustments to be made for any part of the recruitment process.

In order to comply with the Prevention of Illegal Working, Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act, you will need to provide appropriate documentation that proves that you are eligible to work in the UK.   

Due to the number of applications we receive, we regret that you will not be contacted unless you are shortlisted for an interview. If you have not heard from us within three weeks of the closing date of your application you should assume that you have not been successful on this occasion.  

Our privacy statement can be viewed on the D&AD careers page.

Co-CEO

• Oxford-based, with regular travel to London 
• 3–4 days per week  
• Permanent contract

AT The Bus is seeking a dynamic Co-CEO (Business & Strategy) to lead alongside our inspirational Founder and Co-CEO, Juli Beattie OBE. Together, you’ll guide the charity through its next phase of growth, ensuring more children and young people access our transformational, school-based art as therapy programmes. You will be jointly accountable for the charity’s impact, financial health, partnerships, fundraising, operations, and governance.

The charity has grown rapidly. Founded in 2018 working in one school in Oxfordshire, we
now support over 1,000 students annually across 15 schools in Oxfordshire and London. We
are looking for a talented leader to co-lead the charity and deliver our vision: to make The
Beattie Method available to every child and young person who needs it, when they need it
most. You will join our Co-CEO, Dr Juli Beattie, and a passionate team to scale our model,
deepen our partnerships, and grow our reach sustainably — always guided by our values of
care, integrity, and teamwork.

While Juli continues to guide the creative and methodological heart of the charity, the new
Co-CEO will take the lead in business strategy, operations, and organisational development,
ensuring our foundations are robust and our future sustainable.

We are looking for someone who brings significant experience in leadership, ideally within
the charity, education, or health sectors. You’ll need a strong track record in managing
talented teams, establishing strong partnerships and implementing robust processes around
finance, HR and compliance. Just as vital is your ability to work collaboratively in a job share,
co-owning strategy and decisions with integrity, humility, and respect. We are looking for a
true partner in leadership — someone who is compassionate and pragmatic, energised by
purpose, and comfortable holding complexity. You will be based at our Oxford office, with
regular travel to our schools and partners in London and potentially beyond.

We hope this information inspires you to take the next step. If you share our belief in the
transformative power of creativity, relationships, and education, we would love to hear from
you.

How to apply: visit our website and request an application pack.

Chief Executive Officer – Keren’s Nursery Group, London

We’re seeking an inspiring, strategic, and values-driven Chief Executive Officer to lead one of London’s most respected nursery groups — four Outstanding settings united by a shared ethos of excellence, care, and innovation.

Reporting directly to the founders, you’ll guide the next stage of the group’s growth and development , driving educational quality, financial performance, and team empowerment across all nurseries.

This is a rare opportunity for an accomplished leader to shape the strategic direction of a highly regarded Early Years organisation with deep community roots and a strong reputation for quality.

Salary: £85,000 + long-term performance incentive scheme + 40+ days’ paid annual leave

Exceptional leadership, growth, and impact are recognised and rewarded through a meaningful long-term incentive structure linked to the organisation’s continued success.

Ready to make a lasting impact in Early Years education? Join us and help nurture the next generation.

Location: London – Multi-site group across four Outstanding nurseries

Contract: Full-time, Permanent

Salary: £85,000 + long-term performance incentive scheme + 40+ days’ paid annual leave

We offer a highly competitive package designed to attract a visionary leader.

Alongside a strong base salary, this role includes a long-term performance-based incentive scheme directly tied to the organisation’s sustained growth and success.

Exceptional leadership and measurable impact will be rewarded in a substantial way .

Full details will be shared with shortlisted candidates during later stages.

We’re looking for a transformational CEO who can lead our Outstanding nurseries to new heights.

You will drive excellence in education, care, and operations across all branches — ensuring exceptional outcomes for children, families, and staff .

This is your opportunity to lead a values-driven organisation with a deep commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainable growth .

Lead & Inspire – Foster a culture of excellence and professional growth.

Drive Financial Performance – Maintain occupancy, manage budgets, and meet financial goals.

Chief Executive Officer – Keren’s Nursery Group, London

We’re seeking an inspiring, strategic, and values-driven Chief Executive Officer to lead one of London’s most respected nursery groups — four Outstanding settings united by a shared ethos of excellence, care, and innovation.

Reporting directly to the founders, you’ll guide the next stage of the group’s growth and development , driving educational quality, financial performance, and team empowerment across all nurseries.

This is a rare opportunity for an accomplished leader to shape the strategic direction of a highly regarded Early Years organisation with deep community roots and a strong reputation for quality.

Salary: £85,000 + long-term performance incentive scheme + 40+ days’ paid annual leave

Exceptional leadership, growth, and impact are recognised and rewarded through a meaningful long-term incentive structure linked to the organisation’s continued success.

Ready to make a lasting impact in Early Years education? Join us and help nurture the next generation.

Location: London – Multi-site group across four Outstanding nurseries

Contract: Full-time, Permanent

Salary: £85,000 + long-term performance incentive scheme + 40+ days’ paid annual leave

We offer a highly competitive package designed to attract a visionary leader.

Alongside a strong base salary, this role includes a long-term performance-based incentive scheme directly tied to the organisation’s sustained growth and success.

Exceptional leadership and measurable impact will be rewarded in a substantial way .

Full details will be shared with shortlisted candidates during later stages.

We’re looking for a transformational CEO who can lead our Outstanding nurseries to new heights.

You will drive excellence in education, care, and operations across all branches — ensuring exceptional outcomes for children, families, and staff .

This is your opportunity to lead a values-driven organisation with a deep commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainable growth .

Lead & Inspire – Foster a culture of excellence and professional growth.

Drive Financial Performance – Maintain occupancy, manage budgets, and meet financial goals.

• Manage and optimise the CEO's complex calendar, including scheduling meetings, appointments, and travel.
• Coordinate domestic and international travel arrangements, including flights, accommodation, and itineraries.
• Prepare agendas, minutes, and follow-up actions for board meetings and executive team gatherings.
• Screen and prioritise incoming communications, including emails, calls, and mail, and respond appropriately on behalf of the CEO.
• Conduct research and prepare reports, presentations, and briefing materials for the CEO.
• Manage confidential documents and information with the utmost discretion and security.
• Liaise with internal departments and external stakeholders on behalf of the CEO.
• Organise and manage company events and off-sites as required.
• Act as a primary point of contact for the CEO's office, ensuring smooth communication flow.
• Proactively identify and address potential issues or conflicts in the CEO's schedule or workflow.
• Manage expense reporting and corporate credit card reconciliation for the CEO.

• Proven experience as an Executive Assistant supporting C-level executives, preferably in a demanding environment.
• Exceptional organisational and time management skills, with the ability to multitask and prioritise effectively.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a professional and polished demeanour.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and virtual collaboration tools.
• High level of discretion and confidentiality.
• Ability to anticipate needs and take initiative to resolve problems proactively.
• Experience in coordinating complex travel and international logistics.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build rapport with a wide range of individuals.
• Adaptability and flexibility to manage changing priorities in a dynamic setting.
• A degree or relevant professional qualification is an advantage.

• Manage and coordinate the CEO's calendar, appointments, and meetings.
• Arrange complex domestic and international travel logistics.
• Prepare meeting agendas, materials, and take minutes.
• Follow up on action items to ensure timely execution.
• Handle confidential correspondence and draft professional communications.
• Screen calls, emails, and visitors, acting as a primary point of contact.
• Prepare reports, presentations, and other documents.
• Manage special projects and initiatives as assigned by the CEO.
• Coordinate logistics for events, conferences, and board meetings.
• Maintain organised filing systems and databases.
• Provide general administrative support to the CEO.

• Proven experience as an Executive Assistant, Personal Assistant, or similar role supporting senior executives.
• Exceptional organisational and time-management skills.
• Proficiency in calendar management, travel arrangements, and document preparation.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• High level of discretion, professionalism, and confidentiality.
• Strong IT skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Ability to multitask, prioritise, and work effectively under pressure.
• Proactive approach and ability to anticipate needs.
• Experience in a hybrid working environment is beneficial.

• Manage the CEO's complex and dynamic calendar, scheduling appointments, meetings, and conference calls.
• Coordinate and make all travel arrangements, including flights, accommodation, visas, and ground transportation.
• Prepare meeting agendas, materials, and presentations, and take accurate minutes.
• Screen and manage incoming communications, including emails and phone calls, responding as appropriate.
• Handle confidential and sensitive information with the utmost discretion.
• Conduct research and prepare reports or briefings as requested by the CEO.
• Act as a liaison between the CEO and internal/external stakeholders.
• Manage expense reporting and other administrative tasks for the CEO.
• Anticipate the CEO's needs and proactively address potential issues.
• Maintain organised filing systems, both physical and digital.

• Proven experience as an Executive Assistant or Senior Administrative role, preferably supporting C-level executives.
• Excellent organisational, time management, and multitasking abilities.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• High level of professionalism, tact, and discretion.
• Ability to work independently, take initiative, and solve problems effectively.
• Experience in a fast-paced environment.
• Discretion in handling confidential information.

• Manage the CEO's calendar, including scheduling meetings, appointments, and travel arrangements, ensuring optimal time management.
• Coordinate domestic and international travel, including flights, accommodation, and ground transportation, preparing detailed itineraries.
• Prepare, review, and edit correspondence, reports, presentations, and other documents.
• Handle confidential information with the utmost discretion and professionalism.
• Act as the primary point of contact for the CEO, screening calls, emails, and visitors.
• Organize and manage board meetings, executive team meetings, and other key events, including preparing agendas, taking minutes, and following up on action items.
• Conduct research and compile information for special projects and initiatives as directed by the CEO.
• Manage office supplies, equipment, and vendor relationships for the executive suite.
• Assist with budget tracking and expense reporting for the CEO's office.
• Liaise with senior management, employees, and external parties on behalf of the CEO.
• Maintain organized filing systems, both physical and digital.
• Proactively identify opportunities to improve administrative processes and efficiency.
• Provide a welcoming and professional environment for all visitors to the executive offices.
• Anticipate potential issues and provide proactive solutions.
• Support the CEO with personal administrative tasks as required, maintaining strict confidentiality.

• Proven experience as an Executive Assistant, Personal Assistant, or similar role, preferably supporting C-level executives.
• Exceptional organizational and time-management skills with a keen eye for detail.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and virtual collaboration tools.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build rapport with diverse individuals.
• Discretion and a high level of confidentiality are paramount.
• Ability to work independently, take initiative, and problem-solve effectively.
• Experience in event planning and coordination is a plus.
• Familiarity with basic accounting or budget management principles.
• A proactive approach and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Relevant administrative qualifications or certifications are advantageous.

• Manage and maintain the CEO's complex calendar, including scheduling meetings, appointments, and travel arrangements.
• Screen and prioritize incoming communications, including emails, phone calls, and mail, acting as a gatekeeper where appropriate.
• Prepare agendas, take minutes, and track action items for executive meetings.
• Organize and coordinate domestic and international travel, including flights, accommodation, and itineraries.
• Conduct research and prepare background materials for meetings and presentations.
• Handle confidential information with the utmost discretion and integrity.
• Manage expense reporting and corporate credit card reconciliation for the CEO.
• Liaise with internal departments and external stakeholders on behalf of the CEO.
• Assist with personal errands and tasks as required by the CEO.
• Maintain and organize physical and digital filing systems.
• Undertake ad-hoc projects and administrative duties as assigned.
• Ensure the smooth functioning of the executive office.

• Proven experience as an Executive Assistant, preferably supporting C-suite executives.
• Exceptional organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to multitask effectively.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and calendar management tools.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• High level of discretion and ability to handle confidential information.
• Proactive approach with strong problem-solving capabilities.
• Professional demeanor and excellent interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Familiarity with general office procedures and administrative tasks.
• Impeccable attention to detail.