ISBL Symposium - Operational Leadership - 1 July 2026

Operational Leadership Symposium

Turn Strategy into Action. Lead with Clarity. Deliver Impact.

Why Attend?

In today’s evolving education landscape, operational leaders are under increasing pressure to do more with less, respond to policy changes, and deliver sustainable outcomes.

This symposium is designed to help you:

• Translate strategy into day-to-day operations
• Navigate DfE priorities with confidence
• Drive efficiency using proven frameworks like OpEx
• Strengthen governance, risk, and people strategy

You’ll leave with practical tools, actionable insights, and clear next steps you can implement immediately in your school or trust.

What’s on the agenda?

View full programme here

Who Should Attend?

This event is ideal for:

• School Business Leaders (SBLs/SBMs)
• CFOs, COOs and Trust Leaders
• Operations, HR and Finance Leads
• Senior Leaders responsible for strategy and delivery

What You’ll Gain

✔ Clarity on DfE strategic direction and expectations

✔ Practical ways to lead change and improve operational efficiency

✔ Tools to align resources with long-term priorities

✔ Confidence in risk management, governance and compliance

✔ Strategies to build resilient teams and sustainable workforce plans

Aligned to the ISBL Professional Standards, this event supports your ongoing CPD and professional development.

Programme Highlights

DfE Priorities and Support: What Schools and Trusts Need to Know

Gain a clear understanding of the DfE’s 3–5 year strategy, policy expectations, and the support available to help your organisation succeed.

Department for Education

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Leading Change and Innovation with OpEx

Discover how to use the Operational Excellence (OpEx) framework to streamline processes, reduce duplication, and lead impactful change.

Emma Gray, 1st Pillar Limited

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Turning Vision into Reality: Enabling Strategic Intent

Learn how to connect daily decisions to long-term strategy, influence direction, and manage competing priorities effectively.

Paula Holbrook, Consultant & Interim CFOO

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Managing Risk Effectively

Build confidence in risk assessment, mitigation and governance, with practical approaches to embedding risk into decision-making.

Emma Gray

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Cybersecurity and IT: Safer, Smarter Schools

Strengthen your IT infrastructure and protect your organisation with practical cybersecurity strategies and compliance insights.

Safe Hire AI

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Building a Strong People Strategy

Develop a workforce that is resilient, future-ready, and aligned to your strategic goals through effective succession planning and skills development.

Russell Dalton

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Live Q&A: Practical Steps Schools Can Take Now

A Day Designed for Impact

🕘 Start: 09:15

🕓 Finish: 16:15

🍽 Includes lunch and networking opportunities

Connect with peers, share challenges, and gain insights from leaders across the sector.

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Secure Your Place

Spaces are limited to ensure a high-quality, interactive experience.

Bring your challenges and leave with expert advice and actionable solutions you can implement immediately.

Why ISBL?

At ISBL, we:

• Support your professional growth
• Empower you with practical tools and frameworks
• Inspire confident, impactful leadership

This symposium is part of our commitment to helping you have the greatest possible impact on your school or trust.

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Don’t Miss Out

If you’re responsible for delivering strategy, managing resources, or leading operational change—this event is for you.

Join us and take the next step in your leadership journey.

👉 [BOOK YOUR PLACE]

📌 Plus: Hear real-life case studies showing how schools are maximising the potential of their staff.

Don’t miss out!

**Please note that all prices shown are inclusive of VAT.**

**If you are unable to pay by card please email conferences@isbl.org.uk to request an invoice for payment**

**\*\*By proceeding with your booking for this event, please note that our terms and conditions will apply. You can find a copy of these **here.**

Kindly take note that if you plan to book multiple tickets, it is necessary to include the names of all attendees. In case you don't have the necessary details while booking, you can always add them later.