School Business and Operations Manager

Guildhouse School is a co-educational independent day and boarding school serving international students aged 15+ located in Bloomsbury Square at the heart of London. Guildhouse School specialises in preparing students for pre-university exams, including I/GCSEs, A Levels and the University Foundation Programme (UFP). There are approximately two hundred and fifty students on roll, class size average is nine, and students take part in an extensive range of extra-curricular activities including leadership awards and national/international competitions. Approximately half of the Guildhouse School’s students live in our boarding accommodation. Guildhouse School is a member of the Independent Schools Association (ISA) and inspected by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI).

The Business Manager is a key member of the Senior Leadership Team (SLT), responsible for ensuring the efficient operation of the school, compliance with regulations, and alignment with the school’s strategic vision. Reporting directly to the Head Teacher, this role plays a vital part in preparing for inspections and maintaining a high-quality environment for students and staff. The Business Manager leads contracted maintenance, cleaning, and catering teams while overseeing staff welfare, appraisals, and policy implementation for that group. Through effective leadership, they contribute to a safe, well-maintained, and supportive learning environment.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Financial Management

• Prepare and manage the annual budget in collaboration with the Head Teacher, CGS finance team and HR Business Partner.
• Advise on financial planning, including fee setting and business strategy.
• Monitor expenditures, salaries, and provide financial reports to the Head Teacher.
• Ensure financial controls, credit management, and compliance with audit requirements.
• Oversee invoicing, debt collection, and fee administration.

• Ensure compliance with health and safety, financial, and data protection regulations.
• Oversee school inspections and regulatory requirements (e.g., ISI framework compliance).
• Manage contracts, tenders, and agreements for support services, ensuring value for money.
• Submit required legal and regulatory reports (e.g., workforce surveys).
• Maintain security procedures and ensure the school’s safety protocols are upheld.
• Ensure policies and procedures align with the CGS strategic vision.

• Oversee school facilities, including maintenance, catering, cleaning, and lettings.
• Manage maintenance staff and ensure timely completion of facility-related tasks.
• Maintain schedules for regular servicing and inspections of school assets.
• Ensure IT systems are effective, well-maintained, and budgeted appropriately.
• Supervise the letting of school premises and manage associated income generation.
• Oversee catering and hospitality services to maintain quality and efficiency.

• Act as the School's Health and Safety Coordinator within the CGS Health and Safety Committee.
• Oversee fire safety, lockdown, and evacuation procedures.
• Manage school-wide risk assessments and ensure compliance with safety regulations.
• Maintain records of staff and student safety briefings.
• Ensure staff induction processes include health and safety training.

• Actively participate in professional development and training.
• Support the school’s welfare team by addressing staff and student concerns.
• Foster effective communication with students, parents, and staff.
• Contribute to the implementation of the school’s vision and strategic objectives.
• Participate in and undertake performance management and appraisal processes with the reporting teams.
• Support new staff and student induction programs.
• Engage in school-wide initiatives and contribute to a positive school culture.

The above outlines the key tasks and scope of the role. These are not exhaustive and may be adjusted as needed to align with the skill set of the post holder and the evolving needs of the School.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

• Experience & Knowledge

• Proven experience in educational compliance, facilities management, and financial oversight.
• Experience managing staff and resources efficiently.
• Proficiency in financial management, including budgeting and forecasting.
• Experience in private, boarding, or international schools is desirable.
• Accounting (ACA, CIMA, or equivalent) or equivalent financial management experience is preferred.
• Familiarity with CRM systems and relevant software applications.
• NEBOSH National General Certificate is highly desirable, however if not yet attained the candidate must be willing to undertake this upon joining.

• Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire, engage, and motivate staff.
• Ability to work collaboratively across teams and departments.
• Strategic thinker with strong decision-making and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to delegate effectively and hold others accountable.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to build strong relationships with colleagues, students, and parents.
• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.

• Strong work ethic with a commitment to continuous improvement.
• Adept at decision-making, problem-solving, and conflict resolution.
• Ability to work under pressure, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing priorities.
• Willingness to work occasional evenings and weekends as needed.
• Commitment to contributing to the wider school community.

BENEFITS

• Cycle to work Scheme
• Tech Scheme
• Car Scheme
• Free flu vaccine through Healthshield
• Free eye tests
• Financial wellbeing support via WageStream
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Group income protection
• GP24: GP Access for all
• Health Cash Plan
• Death in Service
• Long service awards
• Employee referral scheme
• Enhanced Maternity and Paternity pay

CATS Global Schools is a leading education group committed to inspiring the next generation of world shapers. With a history dating back to 1899, but a focus on the future, our group brings together 16 institutions comprising independent boarding schools, an Arts University College, English language schools and a variety of summer programmes in the UK, US and China. Each year, we provide 18,000 students around the globe with the education they need to develop real-life skills for the future. We are dedicated to academic excellence and our students benefit from our well-developed links to over 40 top global universities. We create a positive learning environment where every student is empowered to make a contribution to shape their world. This is made possible because of the commitment of our pioneering, persevering people who do the very best for our students.

OUR COMMITMENT TO INCLUSION AND DIVERSITY

We are committed to diversity, inclusion and belonging. Building on our core values – Pioneering, Persevering, People – We pledge to deliver a series of events, guest speakers and focus groups to make CATS Global Schools an employer of choice for all.

SAFEGUARDING

CGS is dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the welfare and well-being of children and young people. As such, appointment is subject to the satisfactory completion of safer recruitment employment checks in line with KCSIE guidelines. This will include satisfactory references, enhanced DBS from the Disclosures and Barring Service and, where applicable, any international equivalent being obtained. Shortlisted candidates will be subject to online checks which may include social media.