Trust Leadership Update

Following the departure of Stuart Burns at the end of August, the David Ross Education Trust has confirmed interim leadership arrangements that will take effect from 1 September.

The Board of Trustees has emphasised that its priority is to ensure continuity and stability for pupils and students across the trust, while also maintaining pace and focus into the new academic year.

From 1 September Simon Rose, Deputy CEO, will serve as Interim CEO and Chief Accounting Officer. In addition, Michael Elliott will become Executive Chair, chairing the DRET Executive Board, supporting Simon and the leadership team, and leading on key strategic priorities.

Michael brings over 30 years’ experience as a Chief Executive across a range of organisations, with a proven track record in interim leadership and trustee roles in secondary, post-16 and higher education.

The Trust also confirmed that due to a change in Julian Appleyard’s personal circumstances, he is no longer able to take up the role of chief executive as planned from January 2026. Recruitment for a substantive appointment will begin again in September, with interim arrangements remaining in place until that appointment is made.