Job Title: School Business Manager
Location: Welling, DA16
Contract Type: Fixed Term (Until Easter 2026)
Start: ASAP
Day Rate: £180 – £220 per day (or more dependent on experience)
Reports to: Headteacher
Purpose of the Role
The School Business Manager (SBM) will play a key strategic and operational role in the effective management of the school’s finances, HR, premises, health & safety, and administrative functions. Working closely with the Headteacher and Senior Leadership Team, the SBM will ensure the school operates efficiently, compliantly, and within budget, supporting the delivery of high-quality education for all pupils.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Management
Lead on all aspects of financial planning, monitoring, reporting, and control.
Prepare budgets, forecasts, and financial reports for the Headteacher, Governors, and external stakeholders.
Ensure compliance with financial regulations, audit requirements, and school financial policies.
Oversee payroll, procurement, and contracts, ensuring value for money and effective use of resources.
Manage funding streams including pupil premium, grants, and capital projects.Premises & Facilities Management
Manage the maintenance, safety, and development of the school site and buildings.
Oversee contractors, site staff, and cleaning teams, ensuring high standards of health & safety and statutory compliance.
Lead on capital improvement and refurbishment projects, liaising with the local authority and external partners.
Maintain risk assessments, fire safety systems, and emergency procedures.Human Resources & Administration
Lead HR operations including recruitment, onboarding, performance management, and absence monitoring.
Ensure HR policies and procedures comply with employment law and safeguarding standards.
Line manage administrative and support staff, promoting efficiency and professional development.
Maintain staff training records, the single central record, and safeguarding compliance.Health, Safety & Compliance
Act as the school’s Health & Safety Officer, ensuring policies and risk assessments are up to date and followed.
Oversee GDPR and data protection compliance.
Report to governors on compliance, risk, and operational matters.Strategic Leadership & Governance
Contribute to the school’s strategic and financial planning processes.
Provide accurate financial and operational data to support decision-making.
Attend governing body and Finance & Resources Committee meetings.
Build effective relationships with staff, parents, the local authority, and external partners.
Person Specification
Essential:
Proven experience as a School Business Manager or equivalent senior leadership role.
Strong background in finance, HR, and premises management.
Excellent organisational, communication, and leadership skills.
Knowledge of school financial systems, statutory compliance, and safeguarding.
Proficiency in financial software (e.g., SIMS, FMS, PS Financials, Sage).
Relevant qualifications (SBM Diploma, AAT, or equivalent).Desirable:
Experience in a secondary school or multi-academy trust environment.
Degree-level qualification or equivalent (e.g., MBA, CIPFA, or CIPD)