Appointment of Chief Executive Officer signals exciting future for local Trusts

Two locally-based multi-academy trusts have today announced a significant milestone in their journey towards a proposed merger, subject to approval by the Department for Education (DfE), with the appointment of a new Chief Executive Officer.

Following a rigorous national recruitment process, the Trust Boards are delighted to confirm that David Atter has been appointed as Chief Executive Officer.

David will formally assume the role of CEO for Keys Academies Trust from September 1st 2026.

Subject to DfE approval of the merger, he will go on to become the CEO of the newly formed Deacon Keys Trust, leading the combined organisation into its next phase of growth and development.

David brings with him a wealth of experience in trust leadership, school improvement and organisational development. Having worked across a wide range of educational settings, he has built a strong track record of delivering sustained improvement, fostering positive organisational culture, and developing effective partnerships across the education sector.

His leadership style and personal values closely align with the ethos and ambitions of both existing trusts, making him ideally placed to guide the proposed merged trust in delivering high-quality education and opportunities for all pupils.

This announcement marks an exciting step forward for both trusts as they continue to work in close collaboration towards becoming a single, stronger organisation. The proposed merger aims to build on shared strengths, enhance educational outcomes, and create a resilient structure for future growth.

The Trust Boards expressed their confidence in David’s appointment, noting the strength of the candidate field and the thoroughness of the selection process.

Chair of Keys Academies Trust and Chair designate of Deacon Keys Academy Trust Claire Higgins said: “On behalf of the Board of Keys Academies Trust, I am delighted to welcome David Atter as our new CEO. We carried out a rigorous recruitment and selection process over the last few weeks and had an impressive field of applicants. David emerged unanimously as the standout candidate at the end of the process. His wealth of experience and expertise will stand us in great stead as we enter this exciting new phase of our development, and we are all very much looking forward to working with him.” 

David Atter said “It is a privilege to be appointed as the new CEO of Keys Academies Trust and CEO designate of the Deacon Keys Trust. Peterborough and north Cambridgeshire are vibrant and dynamic communities, and I look forward to working closely with our dedicated staff, governors, and families to ensure every child in our academies receives an exceptional education.”

Mark Potter, Chair of Thomas Deacon Education Trust added: “David stood out for his strong vision, collaborative approach and deep understanding of what it takes to build a successful and inclusive trust. We are confident he will bring our organisations together with clarity and purpose, ensuring that the merger delivers real benefits for all our academies.”

Both trusts recognise this as a pivotal and positive moment and look forward to sharing further updates as plans progress.