Testimonials

“Dion has worked closely with us to support governing bodies and trusts with HT and CSEL appointments assisting with many of the tasks that I used to carry out. He has ensured a good, timely list of candidates and tailored the assessment centre and interviews to meet the needs of the school or Trust especially during the current Covid situation. He keeps me fully informed and sensitively guides applicants as to the requirements of working in Catholic education. Governing bodies have all spoken very positively of the work Dion has done to make recruitment less daunting.”

Angela Cox OBE

Director of Education, Archdiocese of Southwark 

"After facing significant challenges in the past in appointing a dedicated Headteacher for St Chad’s Roman Catholic Primary School, we were introduced to Dion Mills from HAYS. His structured approach, deep market knowledge, and guidance proved invaluable in navigating this process. 

From the initial consultation to the final stages, Dion’s meticulous attention to detail ensured everything ran seamlessly. He provided critical support, managing tasks like advertising, contacting potential candidates, and coordinating interviews.

Dion’s presence on the interview days offered both expertise and reassurance, helping the panel make well-informed decisions. 

Thanks to Dion’s professionalism and market insights, we successfully identified and appointed a Headteacher who aligns perfectly with our school’s vision and values. We are profoundly grateful for his support, which exceeded all expectations"

Marco Starace Chair of Governors St Chad’s Catholic Primary School Croydon 

"The most important matter any school Board of Governors must do, is the appointment of a Head-teacher. It's importance must fill them with trepidation. Using Hays made the whole matter professional and removed that trepidation. The smooth over-site, the clear understanding of local priorities and their supervision of the process enabled the Governors of Cardinal Pole Catholic School to concentrate their efforts on the person who would become the Head-teacher; rather than the necessary administrative timetables and publicity. Hays enabled the matter to be settled by their clear direction and incisive, but kindly, advise.

It would be difficult to give higher praise and thanks to Hays in general and to Dion Mills in particular. I, personally, would recommend them to and any School preparing to make Senior Managerial appointments."

Fr. David Evans

Chair of Governors,

Cardinal Pole Catholic School

Dean of Hackney

"The Hays recruitment process was completely professional throughout.

They provided excellent recruitment expertise and had a good appreciation of faith school requirements.

They provided support with structuring the whole process including putting together a recruitment pack, advertising, shortlisting, and organising the interview day.

The Governing Body were able to access advice and support both formally and informally from start to finish and Hays were responsive to specific needs."

Elizabeth Burden

Chair of Governors

Christ the King College 

"We have been working with Dion Mills from Hays Leadership for 6 years, during that time Dion has recruited over 40 Heads and Deputies across Westminster Diocese. 

All of our dealings with Dion  have been extremely professional and the feedback from schools has always been very positive. Dion has an excellent understanding of the complexities and challenges of recruiting in the Catholic sector. One of the reasons I recommend working with Dion is that he works alongside Governors offering advice and guidance and, unlike with many recruiters, Governors are not pressured in to making an appointment. 

As well as Headhunting candidates Dion also supports Governors by creating interview plans and actually being present throughout interview days. 

I recommend him unreservedly." 

Mike Pittendreigh, Retired Assistant Director of Education

Diocese of Westminster Education Service