Non-Executive Director

The successful candidate will bring independent judgement, constructive challenge and relevant commercial experience. The role involves working collaboratively with the existing Board and supporting the shareholders and Family Council.

This is an opportunity to contribute to the development and long-term success of an established educational publisher.

Key responsibilities

- Provide independent oversight, advice and challenge to the Board and executive team.

- Contribute to the development of the company's business plans.

- Monitor financial performance, profitability, cash flow and key business risks.

- Bring external experience, insight and perspective to Board discussions and decision-making.

- Assist the Board and Family Council in assessing opportunities for growth, investment and partnerships.

- Work with the Board on acquisitions or disposals to seek the best return for shareholders.

- Support the Board and Family Council in strengthening company governance and leadership.

- Support the executive team in upgrading controls and systems for HR, risk management and finance.

- Support the Board in maintaining a clear focus on the long-term interests of the company and its shareholders.

- Contribute to succession planning and the development of the senior management team.

The ideal candidate

- Significant senior commercial and/or board-level experience and a proven track record of delivering business growth.

- Experience of leading a business or its product or technology division through development and scale.

- Strong financial acumen and a structured, strategic mindset.

- Experience of privately owned businesses, ideally a family business.

- A constructive and empathetic approach to working with the senior team and fellow Board members.

- Experience of the education market and insight into how technology can transform educational resources.

- Experience in print and/or digital publishing is useful but not essential.

Time commitment and location

The Non-Executive Director will be expected to attend scheduled Board meetings, likely six per year, typically held in person at Jolly Learning's offices in Essex. The role also includes relevant Board discussions and reasonable additional time for preparation, meetings with management and other matters arising during the year.

Appointment terms

Company: Jolly Learning

Appointment: Three years

Notice period: Six months

Remuneration: £10,000-£12,000 per annum

Expenses: Reasonable business expenses reimbursed in accordance with company policy

Reporting to: Chair, with a dotted line to the Family Council

Diversity and fit

Jolly Learning is committed to maintaining a Board with a broad range of experience, perspectives and skills. Female candidates and those with diverse international backgrounds and experience are particularly encouraged to apply. The appointment will be based on the individual's ability to make a positive contribution to the Board and the future development of the company.

How to apply

Send a CV, cover letter and answers to the following three questions to [email removed - click apply for more details] by 11.59pm UK time on Friday 20 November 2026.

1. What boards have you previously been a part of? What role did you play? (300 words)

2. How did these boards operate? What makes a board function effectively? (300 words)

3. How would you help Jolly Learning to identify areas of business opportunity? What is the role of the board in delivering on company goals? (300 words)

First interviews are expected during the week commencing 30 November 2026, with final conversations in early December. We aim to respond to all candidates, but a detailed response and rationale may not always be possible.