Business Manager

Farney Close School Ltd.; Haywards Heath; Remote; GBP 60,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free on-site parking

Free lunch – in term time

Use of on-site gym

25 days annual holiday

Job summary

Farney Close School is seeking a proactive School Business Manager to lead financial, operational and administrative functions at our Haywards Heath campus.

You will oversee budgets, governance, facilities, IT and staff leadership within a charity-education setting, reporting to the senior leadership team. The role is full-time (37 hours) with a salary £60,000–£65,000 depending on experience, and includes on-site parking, free lunch in term time and access to the on-site gym.

Qualifications

• Proven track record managing finance and operations in education/charity sectors.
• Ability to translate strategic visions into operational reality using ICT and data.
• Strong governance, compliance, and stakeholder engagement skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee budgets, forecasting, and financial compliance.
• Manage operations and estates, safety, and facilities.
• Lead staff and non-teaching teams across finance, IT, and facilities.
• Direct IT governance and standards across the school.
• Ensure adherence to charity, education, and financial regulations.

Skills

Financial leadership

Operations leadership

Strategic planning

ICT systems

Governance & compliance

Tools

Finance systems

IT management

Job description

37 Hours Per Week
£60,000 - £65,000 (Depending on Experience)
Free on-site parking
Free lunch – in term time

Join Farney Close School as our new School Business Manager and drive the operational and financial excellence that shapes the future of our children and young people.

• Location: Haywards Heath, Sussex
• Monday to Friday (37 hours a week), with 25 days annual holiday.
• Full-Time Contract.
• Free on-site parking.
• Free lunch – in term time
• Use of on-site gym

About Us

Farney Close is a leading independent special needs day and residential school for children aged 9 -18 who are in receipt of an EHCP because they experience a range of special needs including social, emotional and mental health needs. We are dedicated to providing a well-balanced academic, social, and emotional education. Operating from a vibrant 32-acre estate, we blend high-quality learning environments with dedicated therapeutic spaces including a bespoke vocational block, an expansive sports complex, a Forest School, and a dedicated well-being centre.

Our holistic approach and proactive teamwork equip students with the skills and confidence to thrive in their futures, delivering life-changing support for both our learners and their families.

About the Role

As a vital member of our Senior Leadership Team (SLT), the Business Manager oversees the financial, operational, and administrative functions of Farney Close. This role requires a results-driven, strategic thinker who can balance big-picture planning with robust, hands-on operational leadership.

You will actively contribute to strategic planning while maintaining a steadfast focus on compliance, optimising resources, and leading diverse support teams to ensure the school operates efficiently and effectively.

Key Responsibilities

• Financial Leadership: Oversee budgets, forecasting, and financial compliance to ensure long‑term stability, robust governance, and effective resource allocation.
• Operations & Estates Management: Strategically lead the development and upkeep of the school’s extensive grounds and facilities, ensuring they meet safety standards and provide a world‑class environment for our learners.
• Staff & Team Leadership: Guide and inspire diverse, non‑teaching teams across finance, IT, and facilities, ensuring alignment with the school’s values and ethos.
• IT: Lead the IT team to uphold exceptionally high standards throughout the school.
• Governance & Compliance: Oversee adherence to all relevant charity, education, and financial regulations, working collaboratively with the principal, trustees, governors and senior colleagues to implement policies aligned with the school’s ethos.

Who We Are Looking For

• Proven Track Record: Excellence in managing finance, and operations, with the unique ability to oversee complex systems while remaining detail-oriented and hands‑on.
• Strategic & Tech‑Savvy: Skilled at translating a strategic vision into operational reality, using ICT systems and financial data to inform decision‑making, drive efficiency, and foster innovation.
• Exceptional Communicator: Ability to build strong relationships, inspire confidence, and collaborate effectively with colleagues, external partners, and trustees.
• Leadership Profile: A forward‑thinking, proactive leader who approaches challenges with creativity and resilience, with the capacity to motivate teams and contribute to the long‑term growth of the school.
• Sector Knowledge: Experience in the charity or education sectors, alongside specific knowledge of charity accounting and governance, is highly beneficial.

This role is subject to receipt of good employment references, health clearance and an enhanced DBS check under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.

Closing date is Monday 2 nd November 2026

Role to start Jan 2027 (sooner if available)

Farney Close School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people and communicates a clear framework to employees. Safeguarding is a key aspect of every role, and all staff must have read and be fully aware of the school’s Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy.

Farney Close School is an equal opportunities employer.

Farney Close School
Part of Farney Educational Trust
Registered in England No: 543113
Registered Charity No: 307024
DFE No: 938/6217

Email Us: [e-mail]
Pupil Referrals: [e-mail]

Safeguarding: [e-mail]
Subject Access Requests: [e-mail]