Regional Primary Operations & Compliance Lead

Tkat (the Kemnal Academies Trust); Foots Cray; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Exceptional development

Career Pathways

24/7 Confidential Counselling

Family-Friendly Policies

Supportive Environment

Blue Light Card Access

Cycle to Work Scheme

Generous Pension

Job summary

Kemnal Academies Trust is seeking a Regional Primary Business Manager to act as the strategic engine room between central trust strategy and local school execution across five Weald and City primary academies.

You will stabilise day-to-day operations, mentor front-office teams, oversee HR, payroll, compliance, finance, and facilities, and lead on safeguarding and governance. A driving licence and willingness to travel between academies are essential.

Qualifications

• A relevant professional qualification such as School Business Management (e.g., DSBM, Level 5 Diploma or equivalent) is essential.
• Experience in complex operational and financial management and budget preparation.
• Previous experience within a Multi-Academy Trust (MAT) is highly desirable, though commercial or charity sector leaders with strong transferable compliance skills are welcome.
• Advanced IT/MIS literacy is key.
• Mobility: A valid driving licence and access to a vehicle are essential, as regular travel between our 5 regional academies is required.

Responsibilities

• HR, Recruitment & Payroll Support: support safer recruitment, local onboarding/offboarding, and SCR maintenance; oversee absence monitoring and audit employee lifecycle data; assist with payroll queries in coordination with central teams; manage staffing needs with Headteachers and Finance Business Partner.
• Compliance & Statutory Governance: conduct safeguarding and SCR audits; support LA and DfE statutory returns; manage secure record archiving; uphold GDPR standards.
• Local Financial Operations: assist budget monitoring, expenditure tracking, procurement below tender thresholds; oversee SLAs and supplier contracts; explore income or grant opportunities; ensure financial reporting with Finance Business Partner.
• Estates, Facilities & Health & Safety: coordinate site works, health & safety checks, risk assessments, fire drills; lead facilities strategy; manage ancillary services and business continuity planning.
• Training & General Administration: oversee staff training allocations, audit processes, and PDRs; maintain emergency plans.
• Safeguarding: promote safeguarding and welfare of all pupils.
• Operational Leadership: manage regional teams, delegate, and ensure high-quality service across academies.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Stakeholder communication

Contractor negotiation

IT/MIS literacy

Education

School Business Management qualification (DSBM / Level 5 Diploma or equivalent)

Tools

MIS/HR systems

Job description

Kemnal Academies Trust is seeking a Regional Primary Business Manager to act as the strategic engine room between central trust strategy and local school execution across five Weald and City primary academies.

You will stabilise day-to-day operations, mentor front-office teams, oversee HR, payroll, compliance, finance, and facilities, and lead on safeguarding and governance. A driving licence and willingness to travel between academies are essential.