School Business Manager in Northampton

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership
  • Work closely with the Headteacher and Governors to support the strategic development of the school.
  • Contribute to school improvement planning and resource allocation.
  • Provide professional advice and guidance on financial, operational and compliance matters.
  • Identify opportunities for efficiencies and income generation.
  • Ensure compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements.
• Financial Management
  • Lead the preparation, monitoring and management of the school's annual budget and multi-year financial plans.
  • Provide regular financial reports and forecasts to the Headteacher and Governing Board.
  • Monitor expenditure and income to ensure effective budget control.
  • Ensure compliance with Local Authority, DfE and school financial regulations.
  • Manage procurement processes, obtaining quotes and tenders to secure value for money.
  • Oversee financial administration including reconciliations, payments, VAT returns and year-end procedures.
  • Prepare and submit financial returns, including the Schools Financial Value Standard (SFVS).
• Human Resources
  • Lead and manage recruitment processes, including advertising, safer recruitment procedures, contracts and onboarding.
  • Maintain accurate personnel records and oversee the Single Central Record.
  • Support the management of staffing budgets and workforce planning.
  • Monitor staff absence and support attendance procedures.
  • Liaise with payroll providers and ensure payroll accuracy.
  • Coordinate training and professional development records.
  • Ensure compliance with employment legislation and school policies.
• Administration and Data Management
  • Lead and develop administrative systems and procedures to ensure efficient school operations.
  • Line manage and support the administrative team, promoting high standards and professional development.
  • Oversee statutory returns and census submissions.
  • Ensure effective management of school records and data protection requirements.
  • Support communication systems, website compliance and operational administration.
• Premises and Health & Safety
  • Lead on health and safety management across the school site.
  • Ensure compliance with statutory inspections, servicing and risk assessments.
  • Oversee premises maintenance, repairs and improvement projects.
  • Manage contracts and relationships with external suppliers and contractors.
  • Monitor site security and emergency procedures.
  • Coordinate fire safety arrangements and relevant training.
  • Ensure a safe, secure and well-maintained environment for pupils, staff and visitors.
• Safeguarding and Compliance
  • Support the school's safeguarding culture by ensuring all recruitment and employment checks are completed.
  • Maintain safeguarding-related records in line with statutory guidance.
  • Ensure compliance with GDPR, data protection legislation and school policies.
  • Promote the highest standards of confidentiality and professionalism.
• General Responsibilities
  • Attend Governing Board and committee meetings as required.
  • Participate in relevant professional development and training.
  • Undertake any other duties commensurate with the grade and responsibilities of the post.