Strategic School Operations & Finance Leader

Marchant Recruitment; Chelmsford; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Marchant Recruitment is seeking a seasoned School Business Manager for a prestigious independent school in Chelmsford. The role leads operational, financial and administrative functions and partners with the Head and Governors to realise the school’s long-term strategic vision.

The candidate will drive budgets, HR, procurement and risk management while ensuring regulatory compliance and high standards of governance and performance across the campus.

Qualifications

• Significant experience in financial and operational management (school experience desirable).
• Demonstrates strong leadership and team management.
• Excellent organisational and strategic planning abilities.
• Sound knowledge of compliance, governance and risk management.
• Communicates effectively with staff, parents and governors; acts with discretion.

Responsibilities

• Leading the school’s financial management, budgeting and forecasting processes
• Overseeing HR, recruitment and staff compliance procedures
• Managing contracts, procurement and supplier relationships
• Ensuring regulatory compliance across health & safety, safeguarding and statutory requirements
• Supervising site, facilities and administrative teams
• Supporting strategic planning and contributing to senior leadership decisions
• Monitoring risk management and operational efficiency
• Overseeing income streams including fees, lettings and commercial opportunities

Skills

Strategic leadership

Financial management

HR management

Procurement

Governance & compliance

Stakeholder comms

Job description

Marchant Recruitment is seeking a seasoned School Business Manager for a prestigious independent school in Chelmsford. The role leads operational, financial and administrative functions and partners with the Head and Governors to realise the school’s long-term strategic vision.

The candidate will drive budgets, HR, procurement and risk management while ensuring regulatory compliance and high standards of governance and performance across the campus.