At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance, HR, and operations to support student education.
- Company: Millom School, part of Cumberland Council, focused on student welfare.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, term-time only, and potential for part-time work.
- Other info: Join a supportive team with a commitment to safeguarding students.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education while making a real impact in a leadership role.
- Qualifications: Strong financial leadership experience and excellent organisational skills required.
The predicted salary is between 49960 - 51993 £ per year.
Closing date for applications: Monday 1 June 2026
Employer: Cumberland Council
School Business Manager required as soon as possible.
Permanent, Full Time (Part time considered for the right candidate). Term time only (plus 2 weeks INSET/closure working).
Salary Grade 17 NJC scale point 45 to 47 - £56883-£59198 (pro rata). Actual salary - £49960-£51993.
Due to the retirement of the existing post holder, the Governors of Millom School are looking to appoint a new School Business Manager to join our Senior Leadership Team. This is an important leadership role at the school. You will lead all business functions including finance, HR, estates, health & safety, and compliance, ensuring our resources are used effectively to support the education of our students.
As School Business Manager, you will:
- Work closely with the Headteacher and Governors to shape the strategic direction of the school
- Lead financial planning, ensuring sustainability and value for money
- Oversee HR, estates and operational services
- Ensure full compliance with financial, legal, and safeguarding requirements
We are seeking a candidate who:
- Has strong experience in financial leadership and resource management
- Has high levels of integrity and professionalism
- Has excellent organisational, analytical, and communication skills
- Can operate confidently at a strategic level
- Has the ability to work under pressure and prioritise effectively
- Ideally has experience in a school, education, or public sector environment
We are unable to provide Visa sponsorship for this post.
Completed applications and letters should be submitted via email to hr@millom.cumbria.sch.uk. The deadline for applications is 12 noon, Monday 1 June 2026. Interviews will be held week commencing Monday 8 June 2026.
Please ensure that your application includes both a daytime and an evening telephone number where you can be contacted, and an email address.
Millom School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare and well-being of its students. All applicants are subject to the requirements of Keeping Children Safe in Education guidelines. This will include checks with past employers and the need for the successful applicant to hold or undergo a suitable enhanced DBS disclosure.
If you have particular questions about the post, we will be happy to answer them for you. Please ask for the Headteacher’s PA, Sheila Minter, who will be pleased to help you.
Millom School, Salthouse Road, Millom, LA18 5AB.
Strategic School Finance & Operations Manager in Millom employer: Cumbria
Cumberland Council offers a supportive and collaborative work environment at Millom School, where you will play a pivotal role in shaping the strategic direction of our educational institution. With a focus on professional development and employee well-being, we provide opportunities for growth within a dedicated team committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our students. Join us in making a meaningful impact in the community while enjoying a competitive salary and a term-time only schedule that allows for a healthy work-life balance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic School Finance & Operations Manager in Millom
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector and let them know you're on the hunt for a role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school and its values. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their mission. We want to see that you’re not just a fit for the role, but also for the school culture!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or family to build your confidence. Focus on articulating your financial leadership experience and how it can benefit the school’s operations.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Strategic School Finance & Operations Manager in Millom
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Strategic School Finance & Operations Manager. We want to see how you can contribute to our team, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant skills!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key achievements stand out. Remember, less is often more!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As this role involves significant leadership responsibilities, be sure to emphasise your experience in financial planning and resource management. We’re looking for someone who can operate confidently at a strategic level, so let us know how you’ve done this in the past.
Submit Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. Make sure to include all required contact information, like your daytime and evening phone numbers, so we can reach you easily if needed!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cumbria
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Strategic School Finance & Operations Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics relevant to the school environment, such as budgeting, forecasting, and resource allocation. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed finances in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role is all about leadership, so prepare examples that highlight your experience in guiding teams and influencing strategic decisions. Think of specific instances where you led a project or initiative that improved operations or financial outcomes in a school or similar setting.
✨Understand the Educational Landscape
Familiarise yourself with current trends and challenges in the education sector, especially those affecting finance and operations. Being able to discuss these topics will show your commitment and understanding of the role's impact on student welfare and educational success.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions that reflect your interest in the school's vision and operations. Ask about their strategic goals, challenges they face, or how they measure success in this role. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the school is the right fit for you.
