School Business Manager – Independent School – Solihull

A highly regarded independent school in Solihull is seeking an experienced, organised and proactive School Business Manager to join its leadership and operations team. This is an excellent opportunity for a skilled professional who can combine strong financial and administrative oversight with strategic thinking, calm leadership and a clear commitment to supporting a thriving school community.

The school has a strong academic culture, clear routines and a well-organised environment where high standards, pupil wellbeing and professional collaboration are central to daily life. The School Business Manager plays a vital role in ensuring the school’s operational, financial and administrative functions run effectively, allowing leaders and teachers to focus on delivering excellent education and pastoral care.

About the Role

As School Business Manager, you will lead and oversee key operational areas of the school, working closely with the Headteacher, senior leaders, governors and support staff. You will help ensure that financial planning, administration, compliance and site-related processes are managed efficiently, professionally and in line with school priorities.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Leading financial planning, monitoring and reporting, including budgeting and cost control
• Supporting strategic decision-making through clear operational and financial insight
• Managing aspects of HR administration, recruitment coordination and personnel processes
• Overseeing contracts, procurement and service-level agreements to ensure value for money
• Supporting compliance across safeguarding, health and safety, data protection and statutory procedures
• Line managing relevant support staff and contributing to effective team organisation
• Working with school leaders and governors to ensure strong operational planning and accountability
• Helping ensure the smooth day-to-day running of the school across administration, premises and business functions

This is a varied and influential role that requires strong organisation, sound judgement and the ability to balance strategic oversight with effective day-to-day management.

The Team

You will join a supportive and committed school team where collaboration, professionalism and shared purpose are highly valued. The School Business Manager works closely with leadership, office staff and wider support teams, playing a central role in ensuring systems are efficient, compliant and responsive to the needs of the school community.

The school values practical problem-solving, clear communication and a positive approach to leadership. Staff are encouraged to take pride in their work and contribute actively to the continued success of the school.

About the School

This Solihull independent school is known for strong academic standards, high expectations and a supportive culture. Pupils are respectful, engaged and ambitious, and staff benefit from a professional environment where effective systems and strong operational leadership are recognised as essential to school success.

The school places strong emphasis on academic excellence balanced with wider development, offering a broad school experience supported by robust pastoral care, clear safeguarding systems and a strong sense of community. Staff benefit from a collaborative working environment where contribution and expertise are respected.

Key Information

• Location: Solihull
• Start Date: ASAP / next term (or by agreement)
• Contract: Full-time, permanent (or as agreed)
• Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience

What the School is Looking For

The successful candidate will ideally have:

• Experience in school business management, finance, operations or a similar leadership role
• Strong financial understanding, including budgeting, monitoring and reporting
• Excellent organisational and administrative skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities
• Confidence leading operational processes and supporting strategic planning
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with leaders, staff and governors
• Understanding of compliance, safeguarding, confidentiality and professional standards
• Independent or school-based experience is highly desirable, though candidates with relevant transferable experience in business, operations or finance may also be considered.

Why Join This School

• Key leadership role in a high-performing independent school
• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the operational success of the school
• Supportive leadership team and collaborative working culture
• Varied and purposeful role with both strategic and day-to-day responsibility
• Welcoming Solihull school community focused on excellence and wellbeing

This is an excellent opportunity for a School Business Manager who wants to play a central role in supporting high-quality education, strong operations and a positive school community in a successful Solihull independent school.