Interim CIO / IT Director | 3-Month Assignment | Board-level | Strategic IT Review

Interim CIO / IT Director | 3-Month Assignment | Board-level Strategic IT Review

Location: York (Hybrid)

Salary: Dependent on experience, consultancy contract or direct employee status

Commitment: Up to 12 days per month

Contract: Fixed-term interim assignment (3 months)

STEM Learning, the UK's leading provider of STEM education support for schools, is seeking an experienced Interim CIO / IT Director to undertake a strategic review of its IT function while providing leadership continuity during a period of departmental transition.

Reporting directly to the CFO, you will assess the organisation's IT structure, technology landscape, infrastructure, data strategy, project portfolio and sourcing model, providing an independent, evidence-based view of the current state and clear recommendations for the future. You will also act as a key point of contact for the leadership team during a transition period while the current Head of IT takes maternity leave.

We're looking for someone who:

• Has previously held a CIO, IT Director or equivalent senior technology leadership role.
• Can rapidly diagnose IT functions and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Brings expertise across technology strategy, architecture, infrastructure, data, programme delivery and vendor management.
• Is comfortable engaging with boards and executive teams, translating complex technical issues into clear strategic recommendations.
• Builds trust quickly and works effectively with established teams and stakeholders.

Why this role?

• Lead an independent review with genuine executive influence.
• Work with a respected national organisation delivering impact across UK education.
• Shape the future direction of a 23-person IT function and its technology roadmap.
• Deliver meaningful recommendations with visible organisational impact.

Ideal for: Former CIOs, IT Directors, technology consultants or fractional technology leaders seeking a high-impact engagement with a clear mandate and defined outcome.

STEM Learning is a not-for-profit organisation owned by four northern universities and is the UK's largest provider of STEM education and careers support to schools. Through teacher development, digital resources and nationwide programmes, we help inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers and innovators.

Interested? We'd welcome conversations with experienced technology leaders who can bring independent thinking, strategic insight and hands-on pragmatism to this important assignment.   

Click on this link for a detailed brief

By joining us, you’ll:

• Contribute to exciting, high-profile STEM initiatives that have a lasting impact on students and employers alike.
• Work alongside passionate colleagues dedicated to shaping the future of STEM careers.
• Be supported by a collaborative and dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and creativity.
• Gain the opportunity to grow professionally.
• If you’re passionate about STEM education and ready to progress your career in project management, we’d love to hear from you.

Employee Benefits

• 30 days holidays plus bank holidays (plus your birthday)
• Access to an attractive pension scheme
• Our full-time hours are 37 hours per week
• Up to 3 paid volunteering leave days per year
• A comprehensive employee assistance programme
• Access to a voluntary staff benefits scheme including cycle to work loan scheme; health cash back plans; free eye tests; discounted vouchers and much more. Take a look at our benefits brochure to find out more about the benefits we offer.

Next Steps

The closing date for applications is 19th August at 10am

The recruitment process will include first stage Interviews (via Teams) followed by in person second stage interviews in York

To Apply

Please provide us with:

• Your up-to-date CV including the contact details of two referees (please note, references will not be approached without your permission and will not be taken up until the offer stage)
• A covering letter (no more than the equivalent of 2 sides of A4) explaining your interest in the role and why you think you would be the ideal candidate.

STEM Learning strives to be diverse and inclusive – a place where we can ALL be ourselves. We encourage applications from all backgrounds and communities, and are committed to employing teams with diverse abilities, skills, and experiences.

We foster a culture where every employee’s voice is respected and valued.