SCHOOL BUSINESS MANAGER – URGENT REQUIREMENT!

30 hours a week - term time only.

A welcoming and ambitious school in Stanwell is seeking an experienced, strategic and highly organised School Business Manager to join the Senior Leadership Team. This is a permanent, part-time position working 30 hours per week, Monday–Friday, 40 weeks (term-time only) plus 2 additional weeks.This is a pivotal leadership role, ensuring the school’s financial sustainability, operational efficiency and full regulatory compliance—creating the best possible environment for pupils to thrive.

About the Role

As the School Business Manager, you will lead all key business functions including Finance, HR, Health & Safety, Premises, Administration, ICT and Risk Management. Working closely with the Headteacher and Governing Body, you will support strategic planning, effective resource allocation and the smooth running of the school.

Main Responsibilities

Leadership & Strategy

• Advise the Headteacher and Governing Body on finance, HR, administration and premises development.
• Contribute to whole-school strategy, decision-making and long-term planning.
• Lead and support change management aligned with the School Development Plan.

Financial Management

• Prepare, monitor and manage annual and long-term budgets.
• Maintain robust financial systems, ensuring full compliance with DfE/Local Authority regulations.
• Produce accurate financial reports, forecasts and statutory returns.
• Oversee audits, procurement, contracts, service agreements and insurance.
• Identify and drive income-generation opportunities including lettings, grants and fundraising.

HR & People Management

• Ensure compliance with employment law, safer recruitment and best-practice HR procedures.
• Oversee payroll, pensions, staff records and policy management.
• Support recruitment, performance management and development of support staff teams.

ICT & Data

• Oversee the school’s ICT strategy, systems, data protection and GDPR compliance.
• Implement and monitor technology improvements and business continuity planning.

Administration & Operations

• Lead administrative teams to ensure efficient day-to-day operations.
• Oversee statutory returns to the DfE, LA and external bodies.
• Support marketing, communications and partnership development as required.

Key Requirements

• Proven experience in school business management, finance, budgeting and operational leadership.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Experience managing teams, change programmes and complex projects.
• Ability to analyse data, produce accurate reports and work to strict deadlines.
• Commitment to safeguarding and maintaining a safe school environment.
• Degree or equivalent (essential).
• School Business Management qualification (essential).
• CCAB or equivalent accountancy qualification (desirable).
• Evidence of ongoing CPD (essential).