At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial planning, HR operations, and ensure smooth school administration.
- Company: Join a vibrant school in Reading focused on strategic development and student success.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive environment, ongoing training, and potential for permanent role.
- Why this job: Be part of a dedicated leadership team shaping the future of education.
- Qualifications: Experience in school business management and strong financial skills required.
- Other info: Early applications encouraged; safeguarding checks mandatory.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
A vibrant and welcoming school in Reading is seeking an experienced and driven School Business Manager to join their leadership team from September 2025. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the strategic development and smooth day-to-day operations of a forward-thinking educational environment.
About the Role:
As the School Business Manager, you will take lead responsibility for managing the school’s finances, HR, administration, premises, and compliance. You will work closely with the Headteacher and Governors to ensure that the school runs efficiently, allowing staff and students to thrive.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead and manage the school’s financial planning, budgets, and reporting
- Oversee HR operations including recruitment, payroll, and staff welfare
- Manage health & safety, premises, and site services
- Supervise office and admin staff, ensuring smooth running of school systems
- Contribute to strategic planning and school improvement initiatives
Person Specification:
- Proven experience in a similar school business or office leadership role
- Strong financial and budget management skills
- Knowledge of HR processes and employment regulations
- Excellent communication, problem-solving, and organisational abilities
- Professional qualifications in school business management (e.g. CSBM/DSBM) are desirable
What the School Offers:
- A supportive and inclusive school environment
- A committed and experienced senior leadership team
- Opportunities for ongoing training and professional development
- A key role in shaping the operational success of the school
Interested? To apply, please send your CV to: (url removed)
We encourage early applications as interviews will be arranged upon receipt of suitable CVs.
All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQ’s on the Teaching Personnel website for details.
Teaching Personnel is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with DfE statutory guidance ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’ this may also include an online search as part of our due diligence on shortlisted applicants.
We offer all our registered candidates FREE child protection and prevent duty training. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Full assistance provided.
For details of our privacy policy, please visit the Teaching Personnel website.
School Business Manager employer: Teaching Personnel
Contact Detail:
Teaching Personnel Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land School Business Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific financial and HR systems used in schools. Understanding these tools will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former School Business Managers. They can provide insights into the challenges and expectations of the role, which can be invaluable during your application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on the latest educational policies and compliance regulations. This knowledge will show that you are proactive and well-informed, making you a more attractive candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your strategic planning experience in detail. Be ready to share examples of how you've contributed to operational success in previous roles, as this is a key aspect of the position.
We think you need these skills to ace School Business Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in school business management. Focus on your financial planning, HR operations, and any leadership roles you've held. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: If you have professional qualifications in school business management, such as CSBM or DSBM, be sure to include these prominently in your application. This will show that you meet the desired criteria for the role.
Showcase Soft Skills: In your application, emphasise your communication, problem-solving, and organisational abilities. These are crucial for the role of a School Business Manager and can set you apart from other candidates.
Express Your Interest: In your cover letter or application statement, convey your enthusiasm for contributing to the strategic development of the school. Mention how your values align with the school's mission and how you can help create a thriving educational environment.
How to prepare for a job interview at Teaching Personnel
✨Showcase Your Financial Acumen
As a School Business Manager, you'll be responsible for managing finances. Be prepared to discuss your experience with budgeting and financial planning. Bring examples of how you've successfully managed budgets in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate HR Knowledge
Since the role involves overseeing HR operations, brush up on your knowledge of recruitment processes and employment regulations. Be ready to share your experiences in managing staff welfare and any challenges you've overcome in HR.
✨Highlight Your Leadership Skills
This position requires strong leadership abilities. Prepare to discuss your experience in leading teams, supervising staff, and contributing to strategic planning. Use specific examples to illustrate your leadership style and successes.
✨Communicate Effectively
Excellent communication skills are essential for this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Be prepared to answer questions about how you handle problem-solving and ensure smooth operations within a school environment.