Senior Office Manager

Smart Education Recruitment Ltd; Birmingham; On-site; Full time

Job summary

A vibrant Birmingham-based special school is seeking a Senior Office Manager to lead the administration function. The role involves overseeing daily operations, supporting HR and finance, and ensuring a high standard of service in a dynamic environment. Ideal candidates will have strong leadership, organizational skills, and experience in educational settings. Join a dedicated team making a positive impact on the lives of children and young people.

Benefits

Professional development opportunities

Collaborative working culture

Qualifications

• Proven experience leading an administrative function in education.
• Excellent IT skills and confidence using Microsoft Office.

Responsibilities

• Lead a small admin team, ensuring smooth operations.
• Provide administrative support for HR and finance processes.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Organization

Problem Solving

Education

Experience in education administration

Tools

Microsoft Office

School MIS (Arbor or similar)

Job description

Job Description

Senior Office Manager – BirminghamStart Date: September 2025 (an earlier start date can be considered)Hours: 36.5 per weekSalary: £19.81 – £24.67 per hour

A fantastic opportunity has arisen for an experienced and confident Office Manager to lead the administration function at a specialist setting that plays an integral role in the lives of children and young people with additional needs. This Birmingham-based special school is looking for someone highly organised, adaptable, and ready to take ownership of operational excellence within a vibrant and evolving environment.

The RoleThe successful candidate will take on a strategic and hands-on role, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations across administration, and providing vital support to the HR and Finance functions. Working closely with the Headteacher and senior leaders, this role demands a proactive and solution-focused professional who can manage people, systems, and priorities with calm efficiency.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead a small but busy admin team, providing clear direction and high standards

• Oversee front-office functions and internal systems, ensuring smooth operations

• Liaise professionally with staff, families, external partners and stakeholders

• Provide administrative support for HR and finance processes

• Ensure sensitive data is handled securely and appropriately

• Contribute to the effective running of a school that is committed to ongoing improvement and pupil success

What You’ll Need to Succeed:

• Proven experience leading an administrative function, ideally in education or a similar public-facing setting

• Excellent IT skills and confidence using Microsoft Office and school MIS (Arbor or similar)

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written

• Exceptional organisation and the ability to manage multiple priorities

• A flexible, can-do attitude and calm approach to problem-solving

• An understanding of safeguarding and confidentiality in an educational context

Why Apply?

• Be part of a close-knit, values-driven team making a difference every day

• Join a setting where your input will directly impact the quality of education and care offered

• Benefit from a collaborative and supportive working culture

• Access opportunities for professional development and growth

This is an exciting time to join a school on a journey of positive change. If you're a professional who thrives on challenge and purpose, this could be your next great step.