Strategic School Business Manager – Finance & Operations Lead

Marchant Recruitment; Reading; On-site; GBP 48,000 - 58,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Local government pension scheme

Staff wellbeing initiatives

Job summary

Marchant Recruitment seeks an exceptional School Business Manager for a vibrant secondary school in Reading. You will lead non-teaching operations, shape financial strategy, HR, and facilities while reporting to the SLT and governing body.

The role requires strategic thinking, strong leadership, and a proven track record in school operations and financial management within a secondary setting. A competitive package and local pension benefits are offered.

Qualifications

• Proven SBM/Operations lead experience, preferably in a secondary school setting.
• Qualification in finance/accounting (CSBM/DSBM/CIPFA/CIMA/ACCA) or relevant business degree.
• Strong leadership and communication skills with ability to manage diverse teams.
• Experience with school MIS and financial software is essential.

Responsibilities

• Lead non-teaching operations and maintain financial health of the school.
• Oversee budgeting, procurement, SLAs, income generation and internal controls.
• Line-manage Site Manager/Facilities team and oversee HR, payroll, and safeguarding processes.
• Ensure health, safety, compliance with DfE and local authorities; report to SLT and governing body.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Strategic thinking

Resilience under pressure

Education

Finance/accounting qualification or business degree

Tools

SIMS

Arbor

Bromcom

Financial software

Job description

Marchant Recruitment seeks an exceptional School Business Manager for a vibrant secondary school in Reading. You will lead non-teaching operations, shape financial strategy, HR, and facilities while reporting to the SLT and governing body.

The role requires strategic thinking, strong leadership, and a proven track record in school operations and financial management within a secondary setting. A competitive package and local pension benefits are offered.