Strategic School Operations & Finance Lead

Holy Spirit Catholic Primary School; Darwin; On-site; AUD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Holy Spirit Catholic Primary School seeks a dynamic School Business Manager to join the Executive Leadership Team. You will steer non‑teaching functions, supervise budgets, payroll, HR, and governance processes while aligning with the Principal and Catholic Education NT for long‑term financial sustainability.

You will lead strategic financial planning, reporting, and risk management, ensuring compliance and safeguarding throughout the school. Previous school experience is preferred.

Qualifications

• CPA, CA, or equivalent tertiary degree.
• Minimum 5 years of experience as a Business Manager or equivalent high‑level corporate services experience.
• Comprehensive knowledge of financial planning, budgeting, and reporting.
• Demonstrated leadership with HR principles and team management.
• Capacity to contribute to strategic vision and financial sustainability.
• Excellent verbal and written communication; proficient with Microsoft Office and financial software (ClAnywhere advantageous).
• Ability to obtain NT Working with Children Clearance (Ochre Card).
• Experience working in a school environment preferred.

Responsibilities

• Oversee funding applications, assist with budget and cash flow strategies, and manage financial delegations.
• Manage school administration staff, end‑to‑end recruitment, payroll oversight, and HR administration.
• Oversee enrolment processes, census reporting, surveys, and support for the Advisory School Board.
• Oversee supplier relationships, procurement, and contract management.
• Manage facilities, ICT resources, and trading centre operations (Early Learning Centres, OSC, Canteen).
• Manage organisational risk, WHS compliance, and policy adherence.
• Contribute to strategic planning, financial strategies, and business plans.

Skills

Financial planning

Budgeting

Reporting

Strategic planning

Leadership

HR management

Communication

Education

CPA/CA or equivalent degree

Tools

Microsoft Office

ClAnywhere

Job description

Holy Spirit Catholic Primary School seeks a dynamic School Business Manager to join the Executive Leadership Team. You will steer non‑teaching functions, supervise budgets, payroll, HR, and governance processes while aligning with the Principal and Catholic Education NT for long‑term financial sustainability.

You will lead strategic financial planning, reporting, and risk management, ensuring compliance and safeguarding throughout the school. Previous school experience is preferred.