Business Partner

The Harbour Schools Partnership; Devon and Torbay; Hybrid; GBP 35,000 - 40,000; Part time

Job summary

An educational organization in the UK is seeking a part-time Business Partner to join their finance team. In this role, you will collaborate with school leaders to manage budgets, prepare forecasts, and produce financial reports. The ideal candidate will have strong financial experience in education, excellent communication skills, and a proactive attitude. This home-based position allows for flexibility with occasional travel for meetings. Join a supportive team dedicated to enhancing school success and student education.

Qualifications

• Experience within education or a multi-academy trust is ideal.
• Ability to explain financial concepts to non-financial managers is essential.
• Proactive and results-driven attitude.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with head teachers to set annual budgets and 3-year plans.
• Monitor and update school budgets and prepare year-end forecasts.
• Act as a liaison between schools and support services for effective financial management.

Skills

Strong financial experience

Excellent organisational skills

Communication skills

Detail-oriented

Relationship building

Job description

Salary: NJC Grade F 24-28 £35,412 - £39,152FTE (This will be paid pro‑rata to reflect hours and weeks worked)

Working Pattern: This is a part‑time, permanent position working 22.5 hours per week, 52 weeks per year.

The Harbour Schools Partnership is seeking a Business Partner to join our dynamic finance team within Harbour Support Services (HSS). This is an exciting opportunity to work closely with school leaders, supporting them in managing budgets, forecasting and further aspects of school resources.

As a Business Partner, you will:

• Collaborate with head teachers to set annual budgets and 3‑year plans aligned with school development goals.
• Monitor and update school budgets, prepare accurate year‑end forecasts, and produce insightful financial reports.
• Support staffing decisions, compliance with the Academy Trust Handbook, and integrated curriculum financial planning.
• Act as a key liaison between schools and support services, ensuring smooth communication and effective financial management.

What We’re Looking For:

• Strong financial experience, ideally within education or a multi‑academy trust.
• Excellent organisational and communication skills, with the ability to explain financial concepts to non‑financial managers.
• A proactive, detail‑oriented professional who thrives on building relationships and delivering results.

The Business Partner position is a home‑based role but you’ll enjoy a balance of remote working and occasional travel for key meetings with schools and the HSS team, making this an ideal opportunity for those seeking flexibility without compromising on impact.

This is more than a finance role - it’s a chance to contribute to the success of schools and the education of young people. You’ll be part of a supportive team committed to excellence and innovation.

To apply for this role please submit your application online; your supporting statement should outline your suitability for the post.

The closing date for applications is 12 noon 7th January 2026; interviews will be held on Monday 19th January 2026.

All shortlisted applicants will be subject to an online search.

The Harbour Schools Partnership requires all applicants to be eligible to work in the UK with no restrictions, as we are unable to offer sponsorship / work visas. You will be required to provide proof of Right to Work at interview stage.