School Services Manager in Oxford

To lead and coordinate school-based professional services, ensuring the effective day-to-day operation of administrative and support functions across the school. The School Services Manager acts as the senior operational professional within the school, leading administrative services, managing support staff and ensuring that school systems, processes and operational activities are delivered efficiently, effectively and in accordance with Trust expectations. The postholder serves as the primary operational link between the school and Anthem's central professional services teams, ensuring effective coordination, communication and implementation of Trust processes and services at school level. The role is responsible for ensuring that information flows effectively between the school and central teams, that operational issues are resolved through agreed channels, and that Trust standards are consistently applied. The role does not hold responsibility for the professional delivery, technical management or strategic leadership of centralised functions such as Finance, HR, Estates, IT, or Governance. Instead, the role is responsible for coordinating school-based activities, supporting implementation, maintaining local compliance requirements and acting as the key point of contact between the school and central teams. Whilst the role does not hold direct responsibility for school budgets, financial planning or procurement, it is responsible for the effective coordination of operational, administrative and transactional activities that support the smooth running of the school.

Responsibilities

• Leadership and Management of School Services
  • Allocate work, establish priorities and ensure the effective deployment of resources across school services functions.
  • Support employee wellbeing, attendance management and performance management processes in line with Trust policies.
  • Develop a culture of professionalism, accountability and excellent customer service.
  • Ensure appropriate staffing and cover arrangements are in place to maintain continuity of service.
  • Lead the implementation of new systems, processes and operational initiatives.
  • Promote collaborative working across school teams and with central Trust services.
• Professional Services Coordination (Anthem Model)
  • Act as the primary operational point of contact between the school and Anthem central teams, including HR, Governance and Compliance.
  • Coordinate the delivery and implementation of centrally managed services at school level.
  • Ensure accurate, timely and complete information is provided to central teams to support service delivery.
  • Monitor progress of requests, actions and service issues, escalating where appropriate.
  • Facilitate effective working relationships between school staff and central teams.
  • Support the implementation of Trust initiatives, policies, systems and operational changes.
  • Ensure school processes align with Trust expectations and operating models.
  • Promote the consistent application of Trust policies, procedures and standards.
• Operational Leadership and School Coordination
  • Support the Headteacher and senior leaders in the effective delivery of school improvement priorities.
  • Coordinate the implementation of Trust-wide initiatives and operational projects.
  • Identify operational risks, service issues and compliance concerns, ensuring these are appropriately escalated.
  • Monitor the effectiveness of operational systems and recommend improvements.
  • Develop and maintain business continuity arrangements.
  • Lead the continuous review and improvement of administrative and operational services.
• School Office and Administrative Services
  • Ensure a professional, welcoming and responsive service is provided to pupils, parents, visitors and external stakeholders.
  • Manage school communications and enquiries, ensuring timely and appropriate responses.
  • Coordinate school calendars, room bookings and operational schedules.
  • Ensure effective document management, record keeping and administrative systems.
  • Review administrative processes and implement improvements to increase efficiency and effectiveness.
  • Produce operational reports and management information for senior leaders as required.
  • Ensure administrative support services contribute effectively to the smooth running of the school.
• School Operations, Events and Logistics
  • Coordinate key operational activities across the school.
  • Coordinate operational arrangements for school events and activities, working closely with school leaders and relevant stakeholders.
  • Coordinate school photography and visits from external providers.