School Business Manager – Outstanding Primary School – Liverpool

Start Date: As soon as possible

Contract: Full-time, Permanent

Salary: Paid to scale

School Information: This is a well-established, Outstanding Ofsted Rated Primary School in Liverpool, educating pupils aged 4 to 11. The school is deeply embedded in its community and is widely recognised for its exceptional pastoral care, nurturing environment, and consistently strong academic outcomes. With a vibrant and diverse pupil intake, the school prides itself on creating a warm, inclusive atmosphere where every child is valued, supported, and encouraged to thrive emotionally, socially, and academically. The school’s success lies not only in the quality of teaching but in its strong leadership, dedicated staff team, and commitment to maintaining a safe, enriching, and well-resourced learning environment. Classrooms are modern and bright, equipped with up-to-date digital teaching tools, flexible seating options, and high-quality learning materials. Outdoor learning is also a major strength thanks to purpose-built play areas, eco-gardens, and outdoor classrooms.

The school leadership team places a strong emphasis on staff development, collaboration, and high professional standards. The School Business Manager plays a critical role in maintaining the efficiency, financial stability, and operational effectiveness of the school, ensuring that students receive the best possible educational experience.

Business & Operations Department: The Business and Operations Department oversees key structural areas including finance, HR processes, facilities management, compliance, health and safety, procurement, administration, external contracts, and long-term operational planning. The department is vital in supporting the strategic leadership team and ensuring the school continues to operate smoothly and transparently.

As School Business Manager, you will oversee financial planning, budget forecasting, and expenditure control while working closely with the Headteacher and Governing Body. You will manage procurement contracts, oversee school lettings, lead administrative staff, coordinate HR and payroll processes, and ensure the school remains compliant with statutory obligations.

A typical set of responsibilities includes:

• Leading the school’s financial management, including budget planning and monitoring.
• Producing regular financial reports for senior leaders and governors.
• Ensuring full compliance with audit requirements, financial policies, and DfE guidelines.
• Managing procurement processes, negotiating contracts, and ensuring value for money.
• Overseeing HR administration, payroll, and staff recruitment procedures.
• Leading the admin office, supervising administration staff, and supporting reception.
• Managing facilities, health and safety audits, risk assessments, and maintenance.
• Coordinating site staff to ensure the school environment remains safe and operational.
• Leading emergency preparedness and safeguarding compliance in relation to operations.
• Supporting long-term strategic planning and contributing to school improvement priorities.
• Overseeing the management of external contractors and service providers.
• Managing grant applications, funding opportunities, and school resource allocation.
• Monitoring lettings and income generation to support school finances.

This is a senior role requiring exceptional organisational skills, strong financial acumen, and the ability to work confidently with a range of stakeholders. You will support the operational heartbeat of the school and contribute significantly to its long-term vision.

Requirements:

• Experience as a School Business Manager or senior operations/finance professional within education.
• Strong financial management skills and understanding of school budgeting.
• Experience using financial systems, HR systems, and procurement tools.
• Strong leadership and staff management abilities.
• Excellent organisational skills and the ability to work under pressure.
• Strong understanding of health and safety regulations and compliance.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Commitment to safeguarding, confidentiality, and school values.
• Relevant qualifications (CSBM/DSBM or finance-related) desirable.

Application – School Business Manager: To apply, please send your CV as soon as possible.