school business manager

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).