Business Manager

Manchester City Council; Manchester; On-site; GBP 46,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

New Moston Primary School is seeking a Business Manager to lead the strategic and operational functions, overseeing HR, finance, premises, administration and compliance to drive the school's improvement journey.

You will work as part of the Senior Leadership Team to develop partnerships, manage contracts, and deliver projects that enhance facilities and community engagement. Flexible working options are available with term-time arrangements and part-time discussions.

Qualifications

• Experience leading business/operational functions in a school or similar environment.
• Strong financial governance, reporting, and budgeting skills.
• Ability to develop partnerships and drive school improvement projects.
• Proven leadership of multi-disciplinary teams and high standards of accountability.

Responsibilities

• Lead the strategic & operational functions of the school.
• Oversee HR, finance, premises, administration, and compliance.
• Drive improvement projects and facilities development.
• Manage contracts, procurement, and external partnerships.
• Lead and develop support staff within the business function.
• Ensure all statutory and regulatory requirements are met.
• Contribute to whole-school improvement planning as part of SLT.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Project management

Financial planning & analysis

People management

Stakeholder engagement

Job description

About The Role

Contract Type: Permanent
Working Hours: Full Time
Number of Positions: 1
Qualifications Required:
Start Date:6th July 2026
Salary: £50,788.00 per annum
Deadline: Midnight 25th September 2026

Do you want to lead the operational and strategic development of a school at the heart of its community?

Are you a driven and organised professional who thrives on improving systems, managing projects, and making a visible difference?

At New Moston Primary School, we are on a clear and ambitious journey of improvement. Since January 2025, we have begun modernising our school environment, strengthening systems, and raising expectations across all areas.

We are now looking for a Business Manager who will play a central role in driving this next phase.

As Business Manager

• You will be a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, leading the strategic and operational functions of the school.
• You will take ownership of key areas including HR, finance, premises, administration, and compliance, ensuring that the school runs efficiently and effectively.
• You will also lead on a range of development projects, including improving our provision, enhancing our facilities, and continuing to modernise the school environment so that it reflects our ambition for children.
• A key part of the role will be developing the school’s role within the community.
• We are committed to using New Moston Primary School as a central hub for families and the wider community. You will play a vital role in shaping this, identifying opportunities, building partnerships, and maximising the use of our facilities beyond the school day.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the school’s financial planning, monitoring, and reporting
• Oversee operational systems including administration, HR, premises, and compliance
• Drive improvement projects across the school, including facilities and service provision
• Manage contracts, procurement, and external partnerships to ensure value for money
• Lead and develop support staff, promoting high standards and accountability
• Ensure all statutory and regulatory requirements are met
• Contribute strategically as part of the Senior Leadership Team

What We Are Looking For

• A strategic and highly organised leader with experience in business, operations, or school management
• Someone who thrives on project management and driving improvement
• Strong financial and analytical skills, with the ability to make informed decisions
• The ability to lead, influence, and develop teams effectively
• A proactive, solution-focused mindset with high standards
• A commitment to making a difference to children and the wider community

What We Offer

• A key leadership role in a school on a rapid improvement journey
• The opportunity to lead meaningful projects that have a visible impact
• A strong and supportive leadership team with a clear vision
• A culture built on Growth, Standards, Attitude, and Pride
• A well-resourced environment with ongoing investment in facilities and development

Flexible Working

We recognise the importance of flexibility in modern working arrangements and are committed to supporting a diverse range of applicants.

While this is a year-round role, we are open to negotiation around term-time working, with additional agreed days, to support candidates with childcare or other commitments.

We are also open to flexible working arrangements, including adjusted hours, working patterns or working-from-home days, in discussion with the Headteacher. Additionally, the role may be considered on a part-time basis, with a minimum of three days per week.

About the Candidate

To provide strategic leadership and operational management of the school’s business functions, ensuring the efficient and effective use of financial, physical, and human resources.

The Business Manager will play a key role in supporting the Headteacher and Senior Leadership Team in delivering high standards across all areas of school life, enabling the best possible outcomes for children.

Leadership and Strategic Management

• Work in partnership with the Headteacher and Senior Leadership Team to support the strategic direction and long-term development of the school.
• Lead on the development, implementation, and monitoring of business and operational strategies aligned with school priorities.
• Provide professional advice and challenge on operational efficiency, financial planning and resource allocation.
• Contribute to whole-school improvement planning, ensuring that business functions support educational priorities.
• Lead and manage support staff within the business function, promoting high standards, accountability, and professional development.

Organisation and Operations

• Oversee the day-to-day operational management of the school, ensuring systems and processes are efficient, effective, and aligned with school expectations.
• Manage premises, health and safety, and site development, ensuring a safe, secure, and well-maintained environment for children and staff.
• Coordinate external contracts and service level agreements, ensuring value for money and high-quality provision.
• Ensure effective organisation of administrative systems to support the smooth running of the school.

Administration and Compliance

• Ensure that all statutory and regulatory requirements are met, including health and safety, GDPR, and safeguarding-related administrative compliance.
• Develop, implement, and monitor policies and procedures relating to business and operational functions.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records across all areas of responsibility.
• Support the Headteacher and Governors with reporting, documentation, and compliance requirements.

Financial and Resource Management

• Lead on the strategic management of the school budget, including planning, monitoring, and reporting.
• Ensure robust financial controls are in place and adhered to at all times.
• Prepare financial reports for the Headteacher and Governing Body, providing clear analysis and recommendations.
• Manage procurement processes, ensuring best value and compliance with financial regulations.
• Oversee income generation opportunities and support the effective use of funding streams.
• Manage and allocate resources effectively to support school priorities.

About Us

We are fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, younger learners and vulnerable adults and we expect all staff and volunteers to share the same commitment. The above post will be subject to enhanced DBS checks, satisfactory references and will be exempt from the provisions of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. DBS Code of Practice which can be viewed here.

This post is also subject to satisfactory references, proof of right to work in the UK in accordance with the Asylum and Immigration Act 1996 and other pre-employment checks where applicable.

We strive to create a fair and inclusive workplace that is as diverse as the communities we serve. We positively welcome applications from all candidates regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy, and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation