Read more

eTeach UK Limited; Elstead; Hybrid; GBP 21,000 - 26,000; Part time

Job summary

St James invites applications for a School Business Manager to lead the school's financial, administrative and operational functions. This is a key leadership role working with the Headteacher, Leadership Team and Governors to ensure resources are managed effectively and strategically.

The role covers financial management, budgeting, procurement, contracts, premises and HR/payroll, with a focus on value for money, compliance and safeguarding the welfare of pupils and staff.

Qualifications

• Significant experience in financial, business or operational management.
• Strong financial management and analytical skills.
• Experience of managing budgets, contracts and external suppliers.
• Experience of leading and developing administrative processes.
• Experience within a school or public sector environment is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead the school's financial management, budgeting, forecasting and reporting.
• Collaborate with Headteacher and Governors on strategic financial planning.
• Ensure strong financial controls, value for money and compliance.
• Manage procurement, contracts, suppliers and external services.
• Oversee premises, estates, facilities, health and safety, and operations.
• Lead an effective school office and support HR/payroll processes.
• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency and resource use.

Skills

Financial management

Budgeting

Forecasting

Reporting

Procurement

Contracts management

HR & payroll

Operational leadership

Strategic planning

Governance & compliance

Job description

School Business Manager

Salary: PS8.2 (£38,090 FTE) Act salary: £23,254 per annumActual salary: £23,254 per annum (25 hours per week, 40 weeks per year, pro rata). Contract type : PermanentHours : Part TimeWorking pattern to be agreed with successful candidate. This may include some limited flexibility to work from home on specific projects.Interested?

If you are excited by the opportunity to help our school thrive, we would love to arrange an appointment for you to talk with the Headteacher, tour the school and discuss the many opportunities this role can offer.An exciting opportunity to make a real difference to our St James’ communityAre you an experienced, organised and commercially astute professional who wants to use your skills to make a genuine difference to the lives of our children?

We are looking for an ambitious and skilled individual to lead and develop the school's business, financial and operational functions. This is a key leadership role, working closely with the new Headteacher, Leadership Team and Governors to ensure that the school's resources are managed effectively and strategically. We are looking for someone who combines excellent financial and organisational skills with strong leadership, sound judgement and a commitment to education.

The role

The roleAs School Business Manager, you will have responsibility for the effective management and development of the school's financial, administrative and operational functions.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Leading the school's financial management, budgeting, forecasting and reporting.
• Working closely with the Headteacher and Governors on strategic financial planning.
• Ensuring strong financial controls, value for money and compliance.
• Managing procurement, contracts, suppliers and external services.
• Overseeing premises, estates, facilities, health and safety, and operational arrangements.
• Leading an effective, efficient and welcoming school office.
• Supporting the effective management of HR, payroll and staffing processes.
• Leading and developing administrative processes.
• Identifying opportunities to improve efficiency, sustainability and the use of school resources.
• Providing clear, accurate and timely advice to leaders and Governors.
• Ensuring the school operates effectively, efficiently and in accordance with our policies and statutory responsibilities.

About you

We are seeking a confident and proactive professional who can demonstrate:

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Significant experience in financial, business or operational management.
• Strong financial management and analytical skills.
• Excellent organisational and problem-solving abilities.
• The confidence to advise and challenge leaders constructively.
• Experience of managing budgets, contracts and external suppliers.
• The ability to prioritise effectively and work calmly under pressure.
• High standards of integrity, professionalism and confidentiality.
• A strategic mindset combined with a practical, hands‑on approach.
• A genuine commitment to supporting the success and wellbeing of pupils and staff.

Experience of working within a school or public sector environment would be highly desirable, although we would welcome applications from candidates with relevant experience in other sectors.

Why join St James?

If you choose to join us, you will have the opportunity to play a central role in shaping the future of our school.

We offer:

• A friendly, ambitious and supportive school community.
• The opportunity to work alongside an inspirational leadership team.
• A role with genuine strategic influence and autonomy.
• A commitment to your professional development.
• A collaborative and inclusive working environment.
• The opportunity to make a tangible difference to the resources, opportunities and experiences available to our pupils.

Closing date: 28th October 2026Interview date: 9th November 2026Start date: As soon as possibleWe reserve the right to interview and appoint before the closing date, so early applications are encouraged.St James is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The successful applicant will be subject to appropriate safer recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.