About
David Cracknell is a Visiting Professor in Education at the University of Chester, focusing on Children’s Services Workforce Development and Change Management aligned with the Government’s 'Every Child Matters' agenda. He chairs the Board of Trustees for charities including Adoption Matters NW and Cape UK, promoting adoption and creativity in learning nationwide. Previously, he served as Director of Education and Community for Cheshire County Council (1990–2005), overseeing schools, youth services, and cultural initiatives.
He holds leadership roles nationally, including as President of the British Educational Leadership Society and former President of the Society of Education Officers. His career spans local authority management in multiple regions (Warwickshire, Leeds, etc.) and began as a secondary school teacher and higher education lecturer in French and education studies.
Research interests include multi-professional leadership development, children’s services policy, and collaborative management practices. He has published on topics like Performance Related Pay and contributed to national initiatives such as the Centre for Excellence and Outcomes. His advisory roles include the Equity in Education Centre at the University of Manchester and the ADCS SPI Policy Group.
David actively engages in charity governance and national policy forums, balancing academic, administrative, and community-focused work.
