Job Title: School Business Manager
Contract Type: Fixed term (until December 2026)
Reporting to: Headteacher
Location: Primary School in Hoddesdon
Working Hours: 25 hours per week, across 4 or 5 days (flexible working pattern and start/finish times)
Role Purpose
To work in partnership with the Headteacher to lead and manage the school's administrative, financial, and operational functions, ensuring the efficient day-to-day running of the school.
Key Responsibilities
Office Management
Lead the effective management of the school office, including staff and administrative systems
Attend Senior Leadership Team (SLT) and Local School Committee (LSC) meetings as required
Contribute to and influence strategic decision-making
Develop and maintain effective communication systems within the school and with external stakeholders (e.g. website, newsletters, digital platforms)
Liaise with staff, pupils, parents/carers, and external agencies
Line manage administrative and premises staff, including performance management and appraisals
Plan, develop, and monitor administrative systems and procedures
Analyse data and produce detailed reports to support decision-making
Provide guidance and support on administrative matters
Ensure compliance with GDPR across all administrative systems
Support the marketing and promotion of the school
Oversee arrangements for staff absence cover, including maintaining records and timesheetsFinance and Accounting
Provide strategic oversight of the school's financial management
Monitor income and expenditure, cash flow, and budget performance
Oversee month-end processes, including VAT requirements
Report financial information to the Headteacher and Trust CFO as required
Work with the Trust's central team to support internal and external audits and implement recommendations
Review and manage contracts and service level agreements to ensure value for money
Contribute to financial planning and resource allocationHuman Resources and Payroll
Support the Headteacher in delivering effective HR management and workforce planning
Ensure compliance with statutory requirements, including safeguarding and GDPR
Maintain accurate staff records, including the Single Central Record
Manage DBS checks and safer recruitment processes
Liaise with the Trust and external agencies to ensure accurate payroll and pension administration
Act as the first point of contact for payroll and pension queries, referring where necessaryPremises and Estate Management
Work with the premises team to maintain and develop the school site and facilities
Line manage the site manager where applicable
Ensure all required contracts, licences, and insurances are in place and maintained
Monitor service contracts and compliance requirements
Oversee procurement, maintenance, and repair of equipment and facilities
Manage building improvement and refurbishment projects, including liaising with contractors and consultants
Coordinate lettings and community use of the school site to maximise income opportunitiesHealth and Safety
Ensure the school meets all health and safety requirements and maintains a safe working environment
Keep up to date with relevant legislation and ensure compliance
Implement and monitor health and safety policies and procedures
Ensure risk assessments are completed and regularly reviewed
Maintain systems for reporting and monitoring incidents, including liaison with relevant authorities
Oversee annual health and safety reviews and fire risk assessments
Ensure a competent health and safety officer is appointedPerson Specification
Proven experience as a School Business Manager (essential)
Strong understanding of administrative systems and processes
Proficiency in ICT systems (e.g. Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SIMS, FMS)
NVQ Level 4 (or equivalent) in Business Administration
Working knowledge of Level 1 NASBM professional standards
Level 1 Safeguarding training
Understanding of and commitment to the school's ethos and valuesPlease be aware this advert will remain open until the vacancy has been filled. Interviews will take place throughout this period, therefore we encourage you to apply early to avoid disappointment.
Tate is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.
Tate is committed to promoting equal opportunities. To ensure that every candidate has the best experience with us, we encourage you to let us know if there are any adjustments we can make during the application or interview process. Your comfort and accessibility are our priority, and we are here to support you every step of the way. Additionally, we value and respect your individuality, and we invite you to share your preferred pronouns in your application