Group CEO of the Centre for Education Operational Excellence recognised among the education sector's most influential leaders
Stephen Morales, Group CEO of the Centre for Education Operational Excellence (CEOE), has been named number 33 in the Education Business EB50 2026 – the publication's annual list recognising the 50 individuals shaping the future of education.
Compiled by Education Business magazine, the EB50 celebrates leaders who are driving change across the sector, from classroom practice and curriculum development to governance, policy, business management and system leadership.
Stephen's inclusion reflects his longstanding contribution to strengthening operational leadership across schools and trusts. During his career, he has championed the role of school business leadership and, most recently, led the launch of the Centre for Education Operational Excellence – a new organisation bringing together the Institute of School Business Leadership (ISBL) alongside specialist hubs focused on helping schools and trusts build stronger, more sustainable operational foundations through the principles of operational excellence (OpEx).
Under Stephen's leadership, CEOE is working with schools and trusts to improve operational maturity across areas including finance, workforce, estates, technology, governance and procurement, enabling leaders to create capacity for what matters most: improving outcomes for children and young people.
Stephen Morales, Group CEO, Centre for Education Operational Excellence said:
"I'm honoured to be recognised in this year's EB50 alongside so many individuals making a real difference across education.
"This recognition reflects the work of many colleagues and partners who share a belief that operational excellence enables educational excellence. As the challenges facing schools and trusts continue to grow, operational excellence has never been more important in helping leaders build resilient, sustainable organisations that allow teachers and school leaders to focus on improving outcomes for children and young people."
Since launching earlier this year, CEOE has brought together sector expertise to help schools and trusts strengthen operational leadership through research, professional development, benchmarking, operational reviews and specialist support.
ISBL Team
ISBL is uniquely dedicated to supporting every version of the school business profession operating across our school system
