School Finance and Business Manager

Robertson Bell; Essex; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Essex is seeking a School Finance and Business Manager to lead the strategic management of finances in a thriving secondary school. This role involves budget oversight, financial reporting, and improving financial processes, contributing to educational success. Successful candidates will have relevant financial qualifications, experience in budget management, and strong leadership skills. This position offers flexible working options, generous annual leave, and opportunities for professional growth.

Benefits

Flexible and hybrid working options

Generous annual leave entitlement

Opportunities for professional development

Qualifications

• Experience managing budgets, financial operations within a school or public sector.
• Strong communication skills for presenting to non-finance audiences.
• Proactive approach to continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic and operational management of school finances.
• Produce financial reports, forecasts, and long-term plans.
• Drive process improvements and system automation.
• Oversee compliance for health and safety regulations.

Skills

Budget management

Analytical skills

Advanced Excel

Leadership

Communication skills

Education

Relevant financial qualification or QBE

Job description

Join a large, high-performing secondary school at a pivotal time in its journey. As School Finance and Business Manager, you’ll play a vital role supporting a thriving, values-driven community. Reporting directly to the Headteacher, you’ll lead on finance, operations, and resource management across a well-established and high-achieving local authority school that has undergone significant transformation and now enjoys a strong reputation for excellence.

With long-serving staff, a collaborative culture, and a stable leadership team, this is an exciting opportunity to modernise systems, strengthen financial performance, and ensure every resource contributes to student success.

What you’ll gain

This is a strategic and influential position within the Senior Leadership Team, offering genuine scope to shape how a substantial school budget supports its wider educational ambitions. You’ll work closely with the Headteacher and Governors, contributing to long-term financial planning, resource optimisation, and the continued development of a modern, efficient business function.

You’ll be supported by a capable finance team and have oversight of multiple operational areas — from finance and payroll to premises, contracts, and health and safety. With the current postholder retiring after a long and successful tenure, you’ll benefit from a comprehensive handover and strong leadership support.

You’ll also enjoy

• Flexible and hybrid working options (up to two days from home)
• 36-hour working week, with flexibility around hours
• Generous annual leave entitlement and family-friendly policies
• A culture of trust and professional autonomy
• Regular 1:1 support and collaboration with the Headteacher
• Opportunities for professional development and growth within education leadership

What you’ll do

• Lead the strategic and operational management of the school’s finances, ensuring best value, compliance, and sound financial control
• Partner with the Headteacher and Governors to produce accurate, timely financial reports, forecasts, and long-term plansOversee finance, payroll, and site teams — supporting development and high performance
• Drive process improvement and system automation to enhance efficiency and insight
• Lead on procurement, contracts, and income generation — including external lettings and other revenue streams
• Provide clear, accessible financial and strategic advice to senior leaders and governors
• Oversee compliance for health and safety, fire safety, and data protection (supported by specialist leads)
• Contribute to sustainability and environmental initiatives across the school

What you’ll need

• A relevant financial qualification or QBE
• Experience managing budgets, reporting, and financial operations within a school, trust, or similar public sector environment
• Strong technical, analytical, and IT skills, including advanced Excel
• Leadership experience and the ability to develop and motivate teams
• Excellent communication skills and confidence presenting to non-finance audiences
• Integrity, curiosity, and a proactive approach to continuous improvement
• A genuine interest in education and the positive role of finance in supporting learning outcomes

Interviews are expected to take place in early December, with shortlisting during late November.

Ready to make a lasting impact in a high-achieving school that truly values its people?
Apply now to become School Finance and Business Manager — and lead the business operations of a respected, community-focused school with a proud record of transformation and success.