Business Manager in Haywards Heath

At Farney Close, we don't just educate students – we transform lives. We're home to some of the most vulnerable young people in the country, with Outstanding-rated residential care and Good educational provision from Ofsted, proving that with the right support, every young person can flourish.

We need an exceptional Business Manager who's ready to be the financial backbone of something truly meaningful. This isn't your typical number-crunching role – you'll be the operational support behind an organisation that turns challenging circumstances into bright futures.

WHAT YOU’LL BE DOING:

• Lead with Purpose
• Support and work alongside finance, HR, ICT, estates, and support functions across 22+ direct and indirect reports
• Be the right-hand to our principal and the SLT helping them to focus on maintaining, improving and delivering exceptional residential care and educational provision
• Shape the financial strategy that keeps our doors open for the young people who need us most
• Master Complex Operations
• Navigate the intricate world of SEND funding with multiple local authority relationships
• Lead budget processes that directly impact vulnerable lives
• Turn compliance requirements into systems that protect and empower our students
• Oversee everything from statutory reporting to staff accommodation management
• Implement innovative systems that maximise every pound for student support
• Create sustainable funding models that secure our future impact
• Lead key department heads while fostering collaboration across the organisation
• Ensure our 75-year heritage of excellence continues through robust operational support
• Support recruitment, training, and development that attracts professionals with values aligned with Farney Close
• Leverage technology and data analytics to demonstrate our value to commissioners
• Identify opportunities that enhance provision without compromising our care standards
• Support strategic development that expands our capacity to help more young people

WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU:

• Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications
• Private medical insurance and death in service (two times salary)
• Professional development opportunities to keep your skills sharp
• Based in beautiful West Sussex countryside setting with free parking, onsite gym and free lunches provided
• Be part of a compassionate organisation committed to being an exemplary employer
• A site-based role (our students and colleagues need consistent, present leadership)
• Join an organisation with Outstanding-rated residential care and Good educational provision and be a part of their ongoing success
• Gain experience across charity, education, and residential care sectors
• Work directly with the Board of Directors on strategic decisions
• Build expertise in SEND education – one of the most critical areas in education today

The Profound Satisfaction Factor

• Know that your financial stewardship directly enables life-changing education
• See the tangible impact of your work in young people's transitions to independence
• Be part of success stories that break cycles and create new possibilities
• Work for an organization with 75 years of heritage and a clear vision for the future

YOUR ESSENTIAL TOOLKIT

Must-Have Qualifications:

• Strong educational background with excellent English and Maths results
• Proven experience in finance, facilities, and operational management
• Track record of leading and supporting teams and core functions in a schools or commercial environment
• Experience managing complex projects within strict budgets and demanding timelines
• Financial and commercial acumen with strong ICT skills
• CIMA, ACA, ACCA (or working towards)

Highly Desirable Experience:

• Previous Bursar or Business Manager experience
• Background in charity or education environments
• Experience with Sage financial systems
• Understanding of school and charity governance
• Knowledge of charity accounting standards

Personal Qualities We're Looking For:

• Clear leadership capability with emotional resilience and intelligence
• Ability to build effective relationships quickly and create honest, trusting environments
• Strategic thinking combined with attention to detail
• Strong decision-making skills and ability to manage complex priorities
• Empathy with Farney Close's ethos and commitment to our daily mission

Farney Close has achieved Outstanding for residential care and Good for educational provision from OFSTED whilst growing from 72 to 100 students. We've proven that vulnerable young people with social, emotional, and mental health difficulties can thrive with the right support.

This is your chance to combine serious business expertise with genuine social impact. You'll work in an environment where your operational leadership directly translates to improved life outcomes for young people who need it most.

Ready to make a difference that matters? Apply now. We'd love to hear your story.

Closing date of 27th August with interviews to take place early September.

Farney Close is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We welcome applications from all backgrounds – after all, diverse teams create the strongest foundations for supporting diverse young people.

Please note: This role requires on-site presence to ensure effective operational leadership and support for our residential and educational provision. The role will adhere to safer recruitment practices and will require an enhanced Disclosure and Barred List search and a satisfactory section 128 direction check.