School Business Manager: Finance & Operations

Marchant Recruitment; Manchester; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Marchant Recruitment is seeking an experienced School Business Manager for a large secondary school in Greater Manchester. This role combines financial leadership with operational management, working closely with the Headteacher to ensure a safe, well-run environment.

You will oversee budgets, procurement, premises, IT and HR. A strong background in school operations and a professional qualification in school business management is preferred.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in school business management or senior operational role in education.
• Strong financial management skills including budgeting, forecasting, and reporting.
• Solid understanding of school operations, HR, procurement, and health and safety compliance.
• Excellent leadership and organisational abilities with experience managing teams.
• Strong communication and stakeholder relationship-building skills.
• Qualified in DSBM/CSBM or equivalent in finance, HR, or business administration.
• Enhanced DBS on the Update Service or willingness to obtain one.

Responsibilities

• Lead the school's financial, operational, and business functions.
• Balance strategic decisions with hands-on management alongside leadership team.
• Manage budgets, planning, forecasting, procurement, and audit prep.
• Oversee administration, premises, IT, and catering.
• Ensure safety, compliance with health and safety requirements.
• Oversee HR administration, payroll, contracts, recruitment support.
• Negotiate contracts and monitor service delivery with external providers.
• Collaborate with Headteacher on long-term objectives and resource planning.
• Ensure efficient use of school resources and future development.

Skills

Budgeting

Forecasting

Financial reporting

HR procedures

Procurement

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Education

Diploma or CSBM in School Business Management

Tools

Access Education

PSF

SIMS

Arbor

HFX

Job description

Marchant Recruitment is seeking an experienced School Business Manager for a large secondary school in Greater Manchester. This role combines financial leadership with operational management, working closely with the Headteacher to ensure a safe, well-run environment.

You will oversee budgets, procurement, premises, IT and HR. A strong background in school operations and a professional qualification in school business management is preferred.