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Reviewing central leadership teams in MATs

Understand the board’s role in reviewing the central team structure and key issues to consider.

Guidance
26/01/2026
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The central leadership team in a multi academy trust (MAT) implements the trust’s strategic vision, manages the distribution of resources across the trust, and leads the organisation day-to-day.

As the legal employer and accountable body, the trust board is responsible for agreeing the structure of the central team and for appointing the trust’s chief executive officer as its most senior member.

We recommend that boards review the central leadership team structure at least annually in light of its significance for the trust’s financial position and strategic progress.

This guidance is intended to help trust boards:

  • understand the board’s role in reviewing the central team structure
  • identify when and how to conduct a review
  • recognise the scenarios which should instigate a review
  • explore the issues to consider once a review is underway

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