School Business Manager at York Steiner School Permanent, full time position (Part-Time Considered) working all year round - Monday to Friday with additional hours on occasions to fulfil the requirements of the post
Midnight, Sunday, 15th June 2025
York Steiner School is an independent, non-selective school providing Steiner Waldorf education to children aged 3 to 16. Rooted in Waldorf philosophy, we offer a holistic and creative learning environment that nurtures the whole child — head, heart, and hands. We are part of a network of successful UK and Irish Waldorf schools and enjoy strong community ties in the city of York.
We are entering an exciting phase of development, including a rebranding and a new website, and are seeking a dynamic and capable School Business Manager to lead our non-teaching functions and support long-term sustainability.
The School Business Manager is a key member of the senior leadership team, responsible for the strategic and operational management of the school’s finance, HR, operations, marketing, and compliance functions. Working closely with the Headteacher (who leads teaching and learning), the Business Manager enables the school to meet its strategic aims and delivers effective services to support high-quality education.
Operations Manager, HR/Admin Manager, other non-teaching staff as required
Strategic and Financial Leadership
Lead and manage the school’s budget and financial strategy in collaboration with the Trustees
Produce monthly and termly management accounts, cash flow forecasts, and financial reports
Ensure value for money and sound financial planning across all departments
Oversee payroll, pensions, tax compliance, invoicing, and debt recovery
Liaise with auditors and accountants to ensure regulatory compliance and statutory reporting
Manage fee structures, including bursary assessments, invoicing, and debt collection
Maintain the school’s accounting systems and financial records to professional standards
Operational and Compliance Management
Ensure legal compliance with all relevant statutory and independent school obligations (DfE, Companies House, Charity Commission, GDPR, KCSiE, etc.)
Oversee HR administration, ensuring robust recruitment, induction, performance management and payroll processes
Support policy development and implementation relating to staff wellbeing, training, contracts and disciplinary matters
Develop and lead a marketing strategy to support pupil recruitment and retention
Manage the school’s brand and communications, including website, social media, and promotional materials
Build positive relationships with parents, prospective families, local businesses and the wider community, including coordinating the alumni network
Support the Trustees with strategic planning, risk management and financial oversight
Annual Leave: 28 days (inclusive of bank holidays) in the first year, 31 day in the second year before rising to 33 days after 3 years. Business and/or financial qualification (AAT Level 3 or equivalent)
Significant experience in financial management, including budget planning and forecasting
Experience of managing people and building effective teams
QuickBooks, DEXT), MS Office, Google Workspace
Strong analytical and financial reporting skills
Calm, flexible, and solutions-focused
Committed to equity, inclusion and community engagement