Secondary Operations & Business Manager

Tkat (the Kemnal Academies Trust); Tilgate; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid working

Pension scheme

24/7 confidential counselling

Cycle to work

Blue Light Card

Professional development

Job summary

Thomas Bennett Community College, part of Kemnal Academies Trust, seeks a proactive Secondary Operations & Business Manager to lead non-teaching functions and optimize resources across the campus. You will be pivotal in estates, facilities, HR, and financial management, partnering with school leadership and central Trust teams.

You will guide budgets, forecasting, and resource allocation, ensuring compliance and robust MIS practices.

Qualifications

• Professional qualification in School Business Management (e.g., Level 5 Diploma / DSBM or equivalent).
• Experience advising budgets, forecasting, and resource allocation in line with governance.
• Leads and line manages core operational teams, including administrative staff and Premises Manager.
• Oversees site health & safety, facilities management, procurement, and asset management.

Responsibilities

• Lead non-teaching academy functions and optimize resources daily.
• Collaborate with school leadership and central Trust functions.
• Ensure compliance with the Academy Trust Handbook and governance.
• Oversee health and safety, facilities management, and asset procurement in collaboration.

Skills

Strategic planning

Operational leadership

MIS/financial systems

Communication

Problem-solving

Education

Level 5 Diploma / DSBM or equivalent

Tools

HR/payroll software

Estates management software

Health and safety software

Job description

We are looking for a dedicated Secondary Operations & Business Manager who brings strategic vision, operational excellence, and purpose to our team at Thomas Bennett Community College, someone ready to lead non-teaching academy functions and optimize our resources every single day.

In our Trust, an Operations & Business Manager is far more than an administrative lead; you are a key architect in building the operational foundation that enables high-quality education, managing estates, facilities, health and safety, HR/people operations, and financial management. We are seeking a proactive, resilient team player and trusted advisor who can collaborate with school leadership, direct local teams, and interface seamlessly with central Trust functions.

Whether you have extensive experience managing school business operations, a strong background in education finance or HR, or proven expertise in multi-site estates and compliance, your talent will be valued here. In our community, business leaders are vital partners in driving educational standards and fostering a strong sense of belonging.

Together, let's maximize our resources, streamline operations, and ensure every pupil gets the support they need to achieve their full potential.

The ideal Secondary Operations & Business Manager will be someone who:

• Hold a relevant professional qualification in School Business Management (e.g., Level 5 Diploma / DSBM or equivalent).
• Acts as a trusted advisor to the Headteacher on budgeting, forecasting, and resource allocation in line with the Academy Trust Handbook and Trust governance.
• Leads and line manages core operational teams, including administrative staff and the Premises Manager.
• Oversees site health & safety, facilities management, procurement, and asset management in collaboration with central Trust teams.
• Manages local HR operations and payroll reconciliations across the employee lifecycle while maintaining accurate MIS records and the Single Central Record (SCR).
• Demonstrates strong problem-solving abilities, high digital literacy with MIS/financial systems, and clear communication with diverse stakeholders.

Kemnal Academies Trust is a group of schools with ambition for every child and pride in the communities we serve. We provide a broad and rich education that opens doors. Working together, we give every pupil the support and the skills they need to build a life of purpose, agency, and contribution.

Our ultimate aim is to ensure we drive educational standards through the provision of outstanding teaching, leadership, and learning for all. Our leaders focus on pupil progress and attainment, regularly sharing knowledge, insight, and experience across our family of schools. We believe passionately in the power of collaborative working and actively promote school-to-school support because when we work together, every child benefits.

A Culture of Belonging: Equity, Inclusion & Diversity

Belonging is of utmost importance to us. We strive to create an atmosphere where everyone feels welcomed and respected, where expectations are high, and genuine support is provided. Here, colleagues are trusted to lead, contribute, and grow in alignment with our mission. At Kemnal Academies Trust, we are committed to Equity, Inclusion, Diversity, and Belonging. We embrace and celebrate differences, value individual experiences, aspirations, and achievements, and continuously learn how to grow better together. We actively encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds, as we know diversity strengthens our community and drives us forward.

Flexible Working

Kemnal Academies Trust recognises the value of enabling our employees to develop their career while balancing their commitments and interests outside of work. We actively promote flexible working practices and opportunities including potential hybrid working arrangements for this role, to support a positive work-life balance.

We believe that in education, people matter most. Investing in your wellbeing and professional growth isn't just a perk, it's our priority. As part of Kemnal Academies Trust, you will receive a comprehensive benefits package designed to support both your career and your lifestyle:

• Exceptional development: Access high-quality professional development and training opportunities tailored to your role, including support for continuous professional development in education finance, HR, and operations.
• Career Pathways: Receive encouragement and support to grow your leadership capabilities across our Trust family.
• 24/7 Confidential Counselling: Free, round-the-clock support for you and your eligible immediate family members.
• Family-Friendly Policies: Dedicated leave policies and flexible working options, including hybrid working where operational needs allow, to support you through every stage of life.
• Supportive Environment: Work within a forward-thinking culture that actively champions your work-life balance.
• Blue Light Card Access: Eligible to apply for the UK's premier discount scheme, unlocking savings across shopping, dining, travel, and entertainment.
• Cycle to Work Scheme: Spread the cost of a new bike and equipment for a healthier, more affordable commute.
• Generous Pension: Secure your long-term future with substantial employer pension contributions.

About Thomas Bennett Community College

Thomas Bennett Community College is a vibrant secondary school dedicated to delivering an inclusive, ambitious education for all students. Based in Crawley, West Sussex, our school combines a supportive, welcoming ethos with a commitment to high standards, community collaboration, and strong educational outcomes.

To discover what makes Thomas Bennett Community College special, please visit our school website or contact the main office to arrange a tour.

About Kemnal Academies Trust