About the Job
Location: Home-based (UK), with preference for candidates based in or near HMC’s East, West and Southeast Divisions. Occasional travel to Market Harborough (HMC Head Office) and across the UK/Ireland.
Contract: Permanent, part-time (0.5 FTE – c.17.5 hours per week). Flexibility and some out-of-hours work required.
Salary: c.£60,000 per annum (FTE), dependent on experience.
HMC is seeking a highly skilled and empathetic Member Support Officer to join our Member Services team. This is a unique opportunity to provide confidential, one-to-one support and guidance to HMC Heads, helping to strengthen professional networks and shape the future of independent school leadership.
This new and exciting role is at the heart of a respected professional association, designed to enhance our capacity to support members at key stages of their careers and in their day-to-day challenges of headship.
What You Will Be Doing
- Proactively developing relationships with HMC Heads across the East, West and South East Divisions, as well as providing occasional cover for other UK and international regions.
- Offering confidential one-to-one support and guidance to HMC Heads, including transitions into and out of headship.
- Building strong networks across HMC, particularly for CEOs/Principals and Heads in school groups and foundations.
- Supporting HMC Heads with Code of Practice queries and other professional matters.
- Working with colleagues to design and deliver guidance, CPD, and resources to support Heads and schools.
- Briefing senior HMC colleagues on emerging themes and supporting development planning.
- Representing HMC at divisional meetings, conferences, and occasional Council/Committee meetings.
- Supporting HMC’s consultancy services for schools and contributing to new initiatives.
About You
You are an experienced leader with:
Essential:
- Recent experience of headship in an independent school (ideally an HMC school).
- Thorough and current knowledge of the UK independent schools’ sector.
- Excellent communication skills and a proactive, solutions-focused approach.
- Strong personal organisation and ability to manage competing priorities.
Desirable:
- Experience of working in or with international schools.
- A coaching qualification or significant experience supporting Heads/CEOs.
- High-level analytical and problem-solving skills.
You will be adaptable, empathetic and able to work both independently and collaboratively, building trust with Heads and colleagues. A confident user of digital tools and systems, you will bring enthusiasm, professionalism, and a strong commitment to HMC’s values.
We Are HMC – The Heads’ Conference
HMC is the professional association of Heads of many of the world’s leading independent schools. We provide a global community for Heads and promote excellence, collaboration, and innovation in education. With over 310 UK/Irish members, 60 international members, and 20 affiliates, HMC is a thriving network of leaders committed to inclusion, accessibility, and the highest standards of education.
This is an exciting time to join HMC as we review and enhance our structures and services to meet the changing needs of Heads in the independent sector.
The Extras You’ll Get
- 30 days’ holiday (FTE) plus public holidays.
- Generous employer pension contributions.
- Flexible and remote working arrangements.
- Access to ongoing professional development.
- Life assurance and Employee Assistance Programme.
How to Apply
Please submit your application before the closing date of 27th October 2025.
First interviews: Online (via Teams) scheduled for Friday 31st October 2025.
Final interviews: Online (via Teams) scheduled for Friday 7th November 2025.
Start date: As soon as possible.
The role is UK-based and only candidates eligible to work in the UK will be considered.
HMC Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Statement
“At HMC we aim to create a welcoming workplace in which difference is celebrated. We understand that diversity makes us stronger and discrimination diminishes us all. The HMC Chief Executive and all our staff are committed to practical measures which will help promote a diverse and inclusive community – a place where we can all be ourselves and succeed on merit. We will examine recruitment, member services, training, HR policies and practices, communication and organisational culture, in the knowledge that diversity is not only just, but also improves our performance as an association. In nurturing a welcoming workplace in which difference is celebrated, we are committed to providing equality of opportunity for all. We will strive to improve our own understanding, act on expert advice and monitor progress.”
