Howard joins PKAT from the Diocese of Norwich Education Services Company (DoNESC) in Norfolk where he led the Diocesan Services Company and was the COO/CFO for its two Diocesan Multi Academy Trusts, the Diocese of Norwich Education and Academies Trust (DNEAT) and St Benet’s Multi Academy Trust.

Before that, Howard was the Chief Operating Officer at Leeds Trinity University and had roles in the commercial sector as Finance Director in a number of fast-growing food businesses based in both the UK and overseas.

About his new appointment Mr Nelson said: “I am absolutely delighted and honoured to be joining the PKAT family of schools as Chief Finance and Operating Officer. I have gained an excellent impression of the Trust and its potential and I am very much looking forward to working with PKAT’s talented and dedicated team. It is a good time to be joining PKAT and I am looking forward to supporting the growth of the Trust and developing high quality, value-for-money central services that will let our schools focus on delivering the best possible outcomes for their pupils.”

Dr Ian Young, CEO of PKAT said: “Howard is a highly experienced CFO/COO, having worked in a trust with a large number of geographically spread schools. He will bring this experience to bear in helping us to develop and grow as a multi academy trust.”

There are currently five schools within the Peterborough Keys Academies Trust.