Lisa Kerr appointed as Chair of HMC for 2027/2028 

We are delighted to announce the appointment of our Principal Lisa Kerr as the next Chair of the Board of HMC (The Heads’ Conference), taking up the role for the 2027/2028 academic year.  

HMC is a global network representing the Heads of 310 leading independent schools in the UK, Ireland, and around the world, which between them are responsible for educating over 362,000 pupils. The organisation has an important voice in the development of education policy and good practice and provides training and professional development for Heads and staff of its member schools.  

Lisa’s appointment will be only the fourth time in over 150 years that this prestigious position will be held by the Head of a Scottish school. However, she is continuing a strong tradition of sector leadership as the third of our five school Principals to lead HMC as its Chair.  

Lisa has been an active contributor to HMC’s work, as both Secretary and Chair of the Scottish Division and as an HMC Board member since March 2023. She brings a wealth of leadership and governance experience from her roles as Principal of George Watson’s College, Governor then Principal of Gordonstoun School, and RGS Newcastle where she serves on the Board of Governors.  

As a champion of the transformative impact of independent education for young people and the wider economy, Lisa has also been at the forefront of sector’s response to the imposition of VAT on school fees. And at a time when the sector is facing significant challenges, Lisa’s business experience from a previous career spanning commercial media, transport, health, technology and the arts brings a unique, business perspective to the leadership of the HMC Board 

Her appointment reflects HMC’s ongoing commitment to ensuring the sector has thoughtful and values-driven leadership and remains a strong voice for independent education. She will succeed Dr Anne Cotton, Head of KCS Wimbledon. 

Lisa said of her appointment: 

“It is an honour to be appointed as the next Chair of HMC. HMC schools across the UK and all over the world represent some of the very best of independent education, not only in academic excellence but in their dedication to pastoral care, widening access and preparing young people for life in a rapidly changing world. 

I look forward to working with colleagues across the association to ensure HMC continues to be a strong voice for our schools and for the vital role they play within the wider educational landscape.” 

Dr Simon Hyde, CEO of HMC, said: 

“I am delighted that Lisa has agreed to serve as Chair of HMC for 2027/28. Lisa is an outstanding school leader with a deep understanding of the sector and a clear commitment to the values that define HMC. She brings strategic insight, warmth and integrity, and she will be an excellent advocate for independent education at an important moment for our schools. 

We very much look forward to her leadership and the contribution she will make to HMC’s future direction.”

You can read the full HMC statement here.