School Operations Leader: Finance, HR & Estates

Kingfisher Primary Academy; Doncaster; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 37,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Local government pension

Professional development

Wellbeing initiatives

Career progression

Job summary

Kingfisher Primary Academy in Doncaster is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to lead finance, HR, administration, estates and compliance, reporting to the Principal and collaborating with the Senior Leadership Team. You will implement robust systems to support the delivery of high‑quality education and provide a safe, well‑managed environment for pupils and staff.

You will oversee financial processes, HR administration and ensure governance, safeguarding and regulatory compliance are met

Qualifications

• Experience leading operational, business, finance or administrative functions within a complex organisation.
• Strong understanding of financial management, budget monitoring and procurement processes.
• Experience managing HR processes, employee records and compliance requirements.

Responsibilities

• Lead the academy's operational functions across finance, HR, administration, estates and compliance, ensuring the smooth running of the school.
• Act as the primary liaison between the academy and central trust teams, providing expert operational support and advice.
• Oversee financial processes including budgeting support, procurement, payroll administration, purchasing, reconciliations, banking and financial compliance.
• Manage HR processes including recruitment administration, workforce data, staff absence monitoring, payroll changes and maintenance of the Single Central Record.
• Ensure safeguarding, health and safety, GDPR and statutory compliance requirements are consistently met and monitored.
• Lead facilities and estates management, including maintenance planning, service contracts, capital projects, premises compliance and site development.
• Line manage administration, premises and catering teams, supporting performance management, professional development and staff wellbeing.
• Provide operational leadership and specialist advice to senior leaders and governors, contributing to strategic planning and continuous improvement.

Skills

Operational leadership

Financial management

HR processes

Procurement

Stakeholder liaison

Team leadership

Safeguarding & compliance

Education

GCSEs (or equivalent)

Job description

Kingfisher Primary Academy in Doncaster is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to lead finance, HR, administration, estates and compliance, reporting to the Principal and collaborating with the Senior Leadership Team. You will implement robust systems to support the delivery of high‑quality education and provide a safe, well‑managed environment for pupils and staff.

You will oversee financial processes, HR administration and ensure governance, safeguarding and regulatory compliance are met