Strategic School Operations & Finance Leader

Marchant Recruitment; Rishton; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Marchant Recruitment is assisting a large secondary school in Preston, Lancashire, in recruiting a School Business Manager. The role combines strategic financial leadership with day-to-day operational management to support a safe, well‑run school environment for staff and pupils.

The successful candidate will have proven experience in school business management or a comparable senior operational role, strong financial skills, and a relevant DS BM/CSBM qualification (or equivalent).

Qualifications

• Experience in school business management or a comparable senior operational role in a school or large educational setting.
• Strong budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting skills.
• Solid understanding of school operations, HR procedures, procurement, and health and safety compliance.
• Excellent leadership and organisational abilities with experience managing teams.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills with senior leaders and external stakeholders.
• A relevant professional qualification such as the DS BM/CS BM or equivalent in finance, HR, or business administration.
• An enhanced DBS on the Update Service, or willingness to obtain one.

Responsibilities

• Financial Leadership: Manage budgets, financial planning, forecasting, expenditure, procurement and audit preparation.
• Operational Management: Oversee administration, premises, IT, and catering.
• Facilities & Compliance: Ensure the site is safe, well-maintained and compliant with health and safety requirements.
• HR & Staff Support: Oversee HR administration, payroll processes, contracts and recruitment support.
• Contracts & Suppliers: Manage external providers, negotiate contracts and monitor service delivery.
• Strategic Collaboration: Work with the Headteacher and SLT to support decision-making and long-term objectives.
• Resource Management: Ensure resources are used efficiently for day-to-day operations and future development.

Skills

Financial management

Strategic planning

HR procedures

Procurement

Leadership

Communication

Health & safety

Education

DSBM/CSBM

Tools

Access Education

PSF

SIMS

Arbor

HFX

Job description

Marchant Recruitment is assisting a large secondary school in Preston, Lancashire, in recruiting a School Business Manager. The role combines strategic financial leadership with day-to-day operational management to support a safe, well‑run school environment for staff and pupils.

The successful candidate will have proven experience in school business management or a comparable senior operational role, strong financial skills, and a relevant DS BM/CSBM qualification (or equivalent).