School Business Manager

School Business Manager

Manchester Full-Time 36000 - 60000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Manage finances, operations, and administration to keep the school running smoothly.
  • Company: Join a popular secondary school in Greater Manchester with a strong community focus.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary based on experience and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Why this job: Be part of a team that shapes students' futures while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
  • Qualifications: Experience in financial planning and school finance management is preferred; accounting qualifications are a plus.
  • Other info: Interviews are happening ASAP, so don't miss out on this exciting opportunity!

The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.

Salary: Negotiable

Hours of work: 8:30am-3:30pm/4pm

Location: Stockport

Start Date: February 2026

An primary school is seeking a dynamic School Business Manager/Admin to lead its operational and strategic business functions. This senior leadership role supports the Headteacher in delivering excellence across finance, HR, compliance, and site management.

The school business manager (SBM) is responsible for managing the strategy and operation of the business functions of the school, including financial management, health and safety, human resources, compliance and administration.

The SBM will advise on and implement the day-to-day support that enables the school to operate effectively and efficiently, and that allows other members of the leadership team to focus on teaching and learning.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead strategic planning and resource allocation aligned with school improvement priorities
  • Manage financial operations including budgeting, forecasting, and statutory reporting
  • Oversee HR processes, payroll, and staff development
  • Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations and legal standards
  • Support the leadership team by enabling operational excellence

Ideal Candidate

  • Proven experience in school business management or similar
  • Knowledge or use of Edgen and Iris
  • Strong leadership and communication skills
  • Relevant qualifications in finance or business administration
  • Ability to work collaboratively and strategically

Aspire People Limited provides services as an Education Agency and an Education Employment Business. Aspire People is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and expects every candidate to share this commitment. Placements are subject to appropriate Child Protection screening, including checks with former employers and the Disclosure and Barring Checks.

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School Business Manager employer: Aspire People

Aspire People Limited is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and dynamic work environment within a popular secondary school in Greater Manchester. With a strong commitment to employee growth and development, we provide opportunities for professional advancement while fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation. Join us to make a meaningful impact in education and enjoy the benefits of working in a vibrant community dedicated to student success.
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Contact Detail:

Aspire People Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land School Business Manager

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the specific financial and operational challenges faced by schools. Research common issues in school finance management and think about how your experience can address these challenges.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with current or former School Business Managers to gain insights into the role. They can provide valuable information on what skills are most important and what the day-to-day responsibilities entail.

✨Tip Number 3

Demonstrate your knowledge of SIMS FMS accounting software. If you have experience with it, be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've used it effectively in previous roles.

✨Tip Number 4

Prepare to discuss how you can support the Headteacher and leadership team in achieving the school's strategic goals. Think of examples from your past where you've contributed to a team's success through proactive problem-solving.

We think you need these skills to ace School Business Manager

Financial Planning
Budgeting
Financial Reporting
School Finance Management
Experience with SIMS FMS Accounting Software
Accounting Qualifications (ACA, ACCA, CIMA)
Operational Management
Administrative Management
Strategic Planning
Problem-Solving Skills
Communication Skills
Leadership Support
Proactive Approach
Attention to Detail

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the School Business Manager position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience in financial planning, budgeting, and school finance management.

Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any previous roles that involved financial management or operational oversight in an educational setting. Mention specific software you have used, like SIMS FMS, and any accounting qualifications you possess.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a personalised cover letter that addresses the Headteacher and leadership team directly. Explain why you are passionate about supporting their vision and how your proactive approach can contribute to the school's success.

Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for a managerial role.

How to prepare for a job interview at Aspire People

✨Know Your Numbers

As a School Business Manager, you'll be handling finances, so brush up on your financial planning and budgeting skills. Be prepared to discuss your experience with managing school or charity finances and any specific examples of how you've successfully managed budgets in the past.

✨Familiarise Yourself with SIMS FMS

If you have experience with SIMS FMS accounting software, make sure to highlight it during the interview. If not, take some time to learn about it beforehand, as familiarity with this software could give you an edge over other candidates.

✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills

This role requires a proactive, solution-focused approach. Prepare examples of challenges you've faced in previous roles and how you overcame them. This will demonstrate your ability to think critically and manage operational issues effectively.

✨Align with the School's Vision

Research the school’s vision and strategic goals before the interview. Be ready to discuss how your skills and experiences align with their objectives, showing that you're not just a fit for the role but also for the school's culture and mission.

School Business Manager
Aspire People
Location: Manchester

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