Temporary Office Manager

The Thrive Group; Swindon; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading education services provider is seeking a Temporary Office Manager in Swindon to oversee school administration, coordinating financial and operational processes across multiple sites. The ideal candidate will have previous office management experience, strong ICT skills, and an understanding of safeguarding in education. This full-time role offers £17.00 per hour with a contract until February half term.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in reception, office management, or school administration.
• Experience of managing budgets and financial processes.
• Ability to work flexibly across multiple school sites.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the school's administrative team.
• Oversee all administrative processes including purchasing and budgeting.
• Maintain accurate financial records and support compliance.

Skills

Strong ICT skills

Excellent organisation

Communication skills

Time-management skills

Education

Qualification in ICT or Business Administration

Tools

Microsoft Office

Teams

Outlook

Job description

Job Opportunity: Temporary Office Manager

Location: Swindon (across three sites)
Hours: Full-time, 37 hours per week, term-time only
Contract: Temporary - until February half term (potential extension to Easter)
Salary: £17.00 per hour

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and highly organised Temporary Office Manager to join our friendly and supportive team. Working under the guidance of the Headteacher, you will play a key role in managing and coordinating the school's administrative, financial, and organisational processes across all sites.

You’ll lead a small administration team, ensuring the smooth day‑to‑day running of the school offices and maintaining compliance across all operational areas. This is a varied role that combines leadership, finance, and school administration – perfect for someone who thrives in a dynamic educational environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the school's administrative team, ensuring efficient and effective support for staff and leadership.
• Oversee all administrative processes including purchasing, budgeting, and financial reporting.
• Manage staff appraisals and performance within the administration team.
• Act as the main liaison between the school and Central Services.
• Maintain accurate financial records, including purchase orders, petty cash, and charge cards.
• Support compliance and Health & Safety processes across all school sites, including risk assessments and audits.
• Oversee safeguarding and data protection procedures, ensuring GDPR compliance.
• Provide a professional, welcoming front‑of‑house service in line with safeguarding policies.

About You

We're looking for a proactive and approachable professional who can bring leadership, attention to detail, and initiative to our team.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Previous experience in reception, office management, or school administration.
• Strong ICT skills, including Microsoft Office, Teams, and Outlook.
• Experience of managing budgets and financial processes.
• Excellent organisation, communication, and time‑management skills.
• Ability to work flexibly across multiple school sites (own vehicle required).
• Understanding of safeguarding and confidentiality within an educational setting.

Desirable

• Qualification in ICT or Business Administration.
• Experience of line management and performance reviews.
• First Aid qualification (Level 3 or willingness to train).