Job Description
School Business Manager
Salary: £42,300 – £47,500 (dependent on experience and qualifications; negotiable for an exceptional candidate)
Contract: Full-time, 43 weeks per year (term time plus 5 weeks, to be worked during school holidays as agreed with the Headteacher)
Location: Ilford
Start: ASAP
About the Role
We are seeking to appoint an experienced, motivated, and forward-thinking School Business Manager to join our leadership team in this pivotal strategic role.
Reporting directly to the Headteacher and working closely with Governors and senior leaders, the successful candidate will take overall responsibility for the effective management of the school’s finance, human resources, premises, and administrative functions.
This is a key position that plays a vital role in ensuring the school operates efficiently and sustainably, enabling staff to focus on delivering outstanding educational outcomes.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead and manage all aspects of financial planning, budgeting, and monitoring, ensuring value for money and long-term sustainability
* Identify and pursue additional income streams and funding opportunities to support school development
* Oversee human resources, including recruitment, compliance, and staff management processes
* Manage the school’s premises and facilities, ensuring a safe, compliant, and well-maintained environment
* Lead the administration function, ensuring efficient and effective support across the school
* Work collaboratively with the Headteacher and leadership team to support strategic planning and school improvement
* Ensure compliance with all relevant statutory, financial, and safeguarding regulations
Person Specification
Experience & Knowledge
* Proven experience in financial management, ideally within an educational or public sector setting
* Strong understanding of budget planning, monitoring, and financial reporting
* Experience in human resources management and leading administrative teams
* Demonstrable ability to manage multiple operational areas effectively
Skills & Competencies
* Excellent organisational skills with strong attention to detail
* Confident communicator with effective written and verbal skills
* Strong IT proficiency, including systems such as Microsoft Office and Arbor (or similar)
* Sound numeracy skills and the ability to interpret financial information
* Ability to prioritise workload and manage competing demands effectively
* Willingness to learn and develop professionally through training opportunities
Personal Qualities
* Proactive, driven, and solutions-focused approach
* Collaborative team player with a positive and professional attitude
* High levels of integrity, reliability, and discretion
* Flexible and adaptable in a fast-paced environment
* Commitment to supporting the school’s vision and contributing to the wider school community