Finance Business Partner & Head of Operations - Full-time

Sandwich Infant; Maidstone; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

St Augustine Academy seeks an experienced Academy Business Manager to join its Senior Leadership Team. This pivotal role involves leading business operations encompassing finance, health and safety, administration, and development of strategic financial and operational plans. The successful candidate will ensure compliance with all statutory requirements and drive income generation initiatives while promoting the Academy’s reputation.

Benefits

28 days annual leave rising to 33 days with 5 years' service

A comprehensive CPD programme for all staff

Laptop

Free Car Parking

Meals available on site for all staff

Free meals for all staff on Inset days

Occupational Sick Pay

Exceptional leave arrangements for family events

Free eye tests for VDU users

Comprehensive EAP with 24-hour access

Free fitness suite on site

Qualifications

• Experience in financial and operational management is essential.
• Ability to manage diverse responsibilities professionally.
• Commitment to supporting the educational environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Academy’s financial operations, including budget planning and reporting.
• Oversee core operational functions ensuring smooth daily running.
• Promote and enhance the Academy’s reputation with community partnerships.

Skills

Organisational skills

Attention to detail

Financial management

Operational management

Education

Background in financial and operational management

Job description

St Augustine Academy is looking to appoint an experienced and highly organised Academy Business Manager to join our well-established and supportive Senior Leadership Team.

This is a key role focused on leading and coordinating the Academy’s business operations, including finance, premises, health and safety, catering, administration, IT, marketing, and compliance. You will play a vital part in ensuring that all non-teaching functions run smoothly, efficiently, and in line with the Academy’s strategic goals.

The role requires strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage a wide range of responsibilities with professionalism and discretion. A background in financial and operational management, along with a commitment to supporting the educational environment, is essential.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the Academy’s financial operations, including budget planning, monthly reporting, and ensuring compliance with statutory and Trust-wide financial requirements.
• Act as the Academy’s Finance Business Partner, providing professional financial guidance to the Principal, SLT, and Academy Councillors.
• Oversee core operational functions including estates, health and safety, IT, administration, catering, and facilities management to ensure smooth daily running of the Academy.
• Support strategic planning and business development, contributing to the Academy Improvement Plan and developing sustainable long-term financial and operational strategies.
• Manage and develop support staff teams, ensuring high-quality performance, effective deployment, and opportunities for professional development.
• Ensure compliance with all statutory requirements, including data protection, health and safety, food hygiene, and emergency procedures.
• Lead the delivery of capital and premises projects, from planning through to completion, ensuring value for money and minimal disruption to Academy life.
• Drive income generation initiatives, including grant applications, lettings, and external funding bids to support financial sustainability.
• Act as Educational Visits Coordinator, ensuring all trips are planned, risk-assessed, and managed in line with policy and financial regulations.
• Promote and enhance the Academy’s reputation, supporting communications, marketing, admissions, and community partnerships.

Informal visits are welcome.

CV’s will not be accepted.

Applications will be considered as they are received. Suitable candidates may be interviewed before the closing date therefore early applications are encouraged. St Augustine Academy reserves the right to withdraw the position if an early appointment is made.

What we offer

• 28 days annual leave rising to 33 days with 5 years' service
• A comprehensive CPD programme for all staff
• Laptop
• Free Car Parking
• Meals available on site for all staff between 8am to 2pm
• Free meals for all staff on Inset days and Open Evening events
• Occupational Sick Pay
• Exceptional leave arrangements for family events
• Free eye tests for VDU users
• A comprehensive EAP (employee assistance programme) with 24 - hour access
• Free fitness suite on site