School Business Manager - Primary School, Blackburn Temporary position with the potential to become permanent for the right candidate Tradewind Recruitment is working with a Primary School in Blackburn, part of a Multi-Academy Trust, to recruit a proactive and experienced School Business Manager. This is a temporary role, with the potential to become permanent for the right person. The successful candidate will play a crucial part in the strategic and operational management of the school's finances and business operations. Key Purpose of the Role: The School Business Manager will oversee the day-to-day financial, administrative, and operational functions of the school. Acting as a key liaison between the school and the Trust's central finance team, the postholder will provide strategic financial guidance while ensuring the smooth running of school business services. Key Relationships: The postholder will work closely with the Headteacher, Chief Finance Officer, Trust Finance Lead, Trust Business Lead, and wider Trust team to ensure effective financial management and communication. Main Responsibilities: Finance & Budgeting: Assist in the preparation of monthly management accounts and variance reports. Ensure timely and accurate month-end processes (e.g., accruals, prepayments). Monitor income and expenditure, identifying variances and working with school leadership to address them. Oversee the preparation and ongoing review of the annual school budget and multi-year financial plans. Present financial information to the school's Local Governing Board. Maintain accurate records of school income and expenditure, including petty cash, pupil payments, and departmental budgets. Support payroll reconciliation and ensure staffing budgets are accurately maintained. Provide financial information for Trust-wide reporting and audits. Operational & Administrative Leadership: Manage key business functions including procurement, premises, health & safety, and HR support in coordination with the Trust. Ensure school operations comply with the Trust's financial policies and the ESFA Academies Trust Handbook. Liaise with the central Trust finance team to ensure efficient processing of financial transactions. Compliance & Development: Keep up to date with changes in education funding, policies, and legal requirements. Ensure the school remains compliant with safeguarding procedures related to finance and operations. Develop systems and processes to improve operational efficiency and value for money. Staff and Systems Oversight: Provide oversight and guidance to school-based administrative and finance staff. Support training and development for administrative personnel in line with Trust expectations. Manage school procurement activities, including the use of procurement cards and ordering procedures. If you're an experienced and driven professional looking to make a positive impact in a vibrant primary school environment, we'd love to hear from you. This is a fantastic opportunity to join a supportive Trust with the possibility of a long-term role. please contact (url removed)