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- Tasks: Lead financial management, HR, and compliance for an outstanding secondary school.
- Company: Renowned secondary school in Birmingham with a strong commitment to inclusivity and academic excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact on students' futures.
- Qualifications: Experience in school business management and relevant professional qualifications required.
- Other info: Modern facilities and excellent career growth opportunities await you.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
This Outstanding 11–18 secondary school in Birmingham is nationally regarded for its exceptional leadership, highly inclusive ethos, and strong academic performance. The school serves a richly diverse community and is deeply committed to providing a safe, ambitious, and supportive environment in which every student can thrive.
Known for outstanding behaviour and excellent student engagement, the school offers a calm yet vibrant atmosphere where learning thrives. Staff benefit from modern facilities, professional development pathways, forward-thinking leadership, and a strong focus on wellbeing. The governing body works closely with leaders to drive improvement and long-term vision, creating a stable and aspirational environment.
As the school continues to grow and modernise its operations, a highly skilled and strategic School Business Manager (SBM) is required to lead on finance, HR, estates, and compliance.
The School Business Manager is a key member of the Senior Leadership Team and will oversee all non-teaching operations of the school. They will ensure that financial planning, business management, and operational processes align with the school's long-term strategic goals.
Primary responsibilities include:
- Leading financial management, budgeting, auditing, and forecasting for the school
- Managing HR systems, recruitment processes, contracts, and policy compliance
- Overseeing estates management, site safety, security, and maintenance programmes
- Ensuring compliance with safeguarding legislation and statutory requirements
- Preparing reports for governors, SLT, and external agencies
- Managing procurement processes and ensuring cost-effective use of resources
- Leading administrative, finance, and support staff teams
- Overseeing risk assessments, health and safety protocols, and disaster planning
- Supporting the strategic development of the school by contributing to policy design, resource planning, and operational improvements
- Working collaboratively with department leaders, external contractors, auditors, and local authority partners
This role requires strong leadership, financial expertise, strategic thinking, and the ability to manage complex operations effectively.
You will work directly with the Headteacher and Senior Leadership Team, acting as a key advisor on financial and operational matters. The SBM will lead the finance, HR, admin, premises, and compliance teams, ensuring all support operations run smoothly and efficiently.
The school uses modern digital systems including HRIS platforms, MIS (SIMS/Arbor), financial management software, and estates-management tools. Training opportunities, CPD, and leadership coaching are regularly provided.
Candidate Requirements:
- Significant experience in school business management or operational leadership
- Professional qualification in business, finance, HR, or management (e.g., DSBM, CSBM, CIPFA, CIPD)
- Strong financial acumen and experience preparing budgets and reports
- Knowledge of safeguarding, compliance, health and safety, and HR legislation
- Excellent communication and leadership skills
- Ability to make strategic decisions and lead organisational change
- Highly organised, analytical, and confident in stakeholder management
- Commitment to the school's values, safeguarding, and inclusive ethos
To apply, please send your CV as soon as possible.
School Business Manager – Outstanding Secondary School – Birmingham employer: Marchant Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Marchant Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land School Business Manager – Outstanding Secondary School – Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who know the school or have worked there. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the school's values and recent achievements. We want to see how you can align your skills with their mission. Show them you're not just another candidate, but someone who truly gets what they're about!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, but keep it natural. We suggest using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers. This way, you can showcase your experience effectively!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you on their radar. Plus, we love seeing candidates take that extra step!
We think you need these skills to ace School Business Manager – Outstanding Secondary School – Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the School Business Manager role. Highlight your financial management expertise and any relevant qualifications to show us you’re the perfect fit!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: In your application, don’t forget to mention your leadership experience. We want to see how you've successfully managed teams and driven operational improvements in previous roles.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and structure your points well so we can easily see your strengths and how they align with our school’s values.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Marchant Recruitment
✨Know Your Numbers
As a School Business Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your financial expertise. Brush up on budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've managed finances in previous roles, as this will show your capability to handle the school's financial operations.
✨Understand the School's Ethos
Familiarise yourself with the school's values and inclusive ethos. During the interview, highlight how your personal values align with theirs. This will not only show that you’re a good fit but also that you’re genuinely interested in contributing to their mission of providing a supportive environment for students.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and strategic thinking. Think about past challenges you've faced in school business management and how you overcame them. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers clearly.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, your leadership style is crucial. Be prepared to discuss how you lead teams, manage conflicts, and drive organisational change. Share specific examples of how you've successfully led projects or initiatives in previous roles to illustrate your approach.
