At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial management and support the smooth running of a primary school.
- Company: Friendly and inclusive primary school in North London.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the education sector while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in school finance and HR processes is essential.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team committed to safeguarding and promoting children's welfare.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: N4, North London
Contract Type: Full-time (Term Time)
Start Date: ASAP
Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience (in line with school pay scale)
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced and proactive School Business Manager (SBM) to join our friendly and inclusive primary school in N4. This is a key leadership role, working closely with the Headteacher and Senior Leadership Team to ensure the effective strategic and operational management of the school’s business, finance, and resources. The successful candidate will play a vital role in supporting the smooth day-to-day running of the school while contributing to its long‑term financial planning and development.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead on financial management, including budgeting, forecasting, monitoring expenditure, and reporting to the Headteacher and Governors.
- Manage HR processes, including recruitment, contracts, payroll liaison, and staff records.
- Oversee premises and health & safety, ensuring compliance with statutory requirements.
- Manage procurement, contracts, and supplier relationships to ensure value for money.
- Line manage administrative and support staff.
- Ensure compliance with local authority, DfE, and safeguarding requirements.
- Support the school’s strategic planning and contribute to policies and procedures.
Essential Requirements
- Proven experience working as a School Business Manager or in a similar senior business/finance role within a school.
- Strong knowledge of school finance, budgeting, and financial systems.
- Experience of HR, payroll processes, and staff management.
- Excellent organisational, communication, and problem‑solving skills.
- Ability to work independently, manage competing priorities, and meet deadlines.
- A clear commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
Desirable
- Relevant SBM qualification (e.g. DSBM, CSBM or equivalent).
- Experience working in a primary school setting.
- Knowledge of local authority procedures and compliance requirements.
School Business Manager employer: Axcis Education Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Axcis Education Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land School Business Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, attend local events, and join online forums. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a School Business Manager role that’s not even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the school’s values and recent developments. Tailor your answers to show how your experience aligns with their needs, especially in finance and HR management.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can set you apart from other candidates. It shows your enthusiasm and professionalism, which schools love to see.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it super easy to find and apply for roles like the School Business Manager. Plus, you’ll get updates on new opportunities tailored just for you.
We think you need these skills to ace School Business Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the School Business Manager role. Highlight your experience in financial management, HR processes, and any relevant qualifications. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for our school. Share specific examples of your past achievements and how they relate to the key responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Showcase Your Organisational Skills: As an SBM, you'll need to juggle multiple tasks. In your application, give us a glimpse of your organisational skills. Mention any tools or methods you use to stay on top of things, especially when managing budgets and staff.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Axcis Education Recruitment
✨Know Your Numbers
As a School Business Manager, you'll be handling finances, so brush up on your budgeting and forecasting skills. Be ready to discuss specific financial strategies you've implemented in the past and how they benefited your previous school or organisation.
✨Showcase Your HR Savvy
Since managing HR processes is key in this role, prepare examples of how you've successfully handled recruitment, payroll, or staff management. Highlight any challenges you faced and how you overcame them to demonstrate your problem-solving skills.
✨Understand Compliance Inside Out
Familiarise yourself with local authority procedures and safeguarding requirements. During the interview, be prepared to discuss how you've ensured compliance in previous roles and the importance of these regulations in a school setting.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Strong communication skills are essential for this position. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, especially when discussing your experience with senior leadership teams. Remember, it's not just about what you say, but how you say it!