Steve Howell is an exceptional TransforMATive Associate, whose expertise and leadership have had a profound impact on the TransforMATive community and the wider education sector. As Tribe Leader for the CFO Tribe, Steve led the development of the highly regarded CFO Playbook, a practical guide that continues to shape financial leadership across Multi-Academy Trusts. His professional generosity is evident in his role as co-chair of TransforMATive Roundtable Networking dinners, where he creates space for leaders to share challenges and solutions. He is also a keynote speaker and expert facilitator on the TransforMATive Leadership Programme and at major TransforMATive events, where his insight and clarity of thought have inspired leaders across the sector.
Steve’s influence is built on two decades of experience in finance, strategy and commercial leadership. He began his career as a Management Accountant with Unilever and Coca-Cola, before moving into education in 2003. He played a pivotal role in establishing and growing the Red Kite Learning Trust, serving as Chief Financial Officer for ten years. In this role he led on finance, risk and compliance while also shaping the Trust’s strategic and commercial direction, creating a strong and sustainable foundation for its long-term success.
Today, as Commercial Director at Red Kite Learning Trust, Steve leads on developing and nurturing brands, cultivating commercial opportunities and building strategic partnerships that extend the reach and influence of the Trust’s work. His career exemplifies a rare ability to balance strong governance with bold, innovative growth.
Steve Howell embodies the TransforMATive ethos of combining expertise with generosity, strategy with collaboration, and rigour with creativity to strengthen education and deliver long-term value.