School Business ManagerFull-Time (35 hours/week) | temporary
Location: Tower Hamlets, London
Salary:£260-£350 per day dependent on experienceProposed start date: October

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced School Business Manager to join our Senior Leadership Team. This is a key strategic role, responsible for leading all non-teaching support functions to ensure the smooth and effective operation of the school.Key Details

Working Pattern: Full-time, 35 hours per week
Contract: Temporary
Flexibility: Required to work flexibly, including during school holidays and occasional evenings for meetings or events
Reports to: Headteacher
Line Management: Responsible for all support staff (excluding SEND and teaching departments), including:
Operations Manager
HR ManagerPurpose of the Role

Provide strategic leadership of the school's business functions to support student development
Advise the Headteacher and Governors on financial planning and business operations
Ensure compliance with statutory regulations and deliver high-quality support services
Act as a full member of the Senior Leadership TeamLeadership Responsibilities

Contribute to the strategic direction and development of the school
Collaborate with partner schools and external organisations
Lead and manage business functions including finance, HR, premises, ICT, data, and administration
Develop and implement effective systems and procedures to ensure service continuity and efficiency
Promote a strong customer service ethos across all support teamsFinance Management

Lead the preparation and monitoring of annual and long-term budgets
Ensure compliance with financial regulations and best value procurement
Provide financial reports and business cases to SLT and Governors
Oversee payroll, pensions, and year-end accounts
Liaise with auditors and manage internal audit processesHuman Resources

Work with the HR Manager to ensure effective HR operations
Provide advice on HR matters to staff and governors
Oversee recruitment, induction, and staff development
Manage casework including attendance, capability, and disciplinary issuesGovernance Support

Ensure effective clerking and administrative support for the Governing Body and its committeesFacilities & Operations

Oversee the Operations Manager and ensure effective estate management
Maintain and develop the school site to meet operational and safety standards
Manage contracts for catering, cleaning, grounds maintenance, and other services
Lead on energy efficiency and sustainability initiatives
Ensure the school remains operational during adverse weatherHealth & Safety

Act as the Fire Safety Lead and oversee the Health & Safety Policy
Provide training and guidance to staff on H&S responsibilities
Implement internal audits and accident reporting procedures
Ensure compliance across all extended servicesRisk Management

Develop and maintain systems to identify, assess, and mitigate risks
Secure external advice where necessary to support compliance and best practiceEssential Attributes

Proven experience in school business leadership or a similar role
Strong financial acumen and understanding of education funding
Excellent leadership, communication, and organisational skills
Ability to work collaboratively and strategically within a senior teamIf you are a proactive, strategic thinker with a passion for education and operational excellence, we would love to hear from you.

What you need to do now

If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.

Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at (url removed)