Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial operations and support functions at a historic independent school.
- Company: Loretto School, Scotland’s oldest boarding school with a rich tradition.
- Benefits: Join a collaborative leadership team and shape the school's vision.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in education while enjoying a beautiful campus environment.
- Qualifications: Proven senior leadership skills and strategic thinking required.
- Other info: Opportunity for professional growth in a supportive and dynamic setting.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Loretto School is a leading co‑educational independent boarding and day school, founded in 1827 by Rev Thomas Langhorne and is Scotland’s oldest boarding school. Situated to the east of Edinburgh, the leafy 85‑acre campus combines history and tradition with excellent on‑site academic, performing arts, sport, golf and outdoor facilities. The school is surrounded by the beautiful East Lothian coastline and 32 golf courses whilst remaining close enough to Scotland’s capital to take full advantage of the rich culture and attractions on offer.
Due to the retirement of the current Head of Operations, the Head and Governing Board are looking to appoint a Business Director who will take responsibility for the financial operations and smooth running of all the school’s support functions. As a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, you will contribute to developing the school’s vision, strategy and business and operational performance.
The successful candidate will be an individual of proven senior leadership ability, a strategic thinker and able to establish highly effective, collaborative working relationships with external stakeholders and colleagues at all levels. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, robust financial judgement and acute commercial appraisal will be essential. Applicants will need to have a genuine interest in and empathy for education; however, prior school experience is not a pre‑requisite.
How to Apply
Loretto School is being assisted in the recruitment of this key appointment by the Independent Schools’ Bursars Association (ISBA), from whom a Candidate Pack can be obtained by sending an email to recruiting@theisba.org.uk. Alternatively, if you would like to discuss the position with ISBA prior to applying, please contact Lucy Wyatt on 07817 038009. Please note applications should be made directly through ISBA. Closing date is 9th February 2026. The ISBA reserves the right to close this position early in the event that they receive a high volume of suitable applicants.
You must have the right to work in the UK to apply for this post. Visa sponsorship is not available. The School is committed to equal opportunities for all its pupils and staff. Loretto is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Loretto meets the requirements in respect of exempted questions under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974; all applicants who are offered employment will be subject to Disclosure Scotland Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Scheme checks before the appointment is confirmed. This will include details of cautions, reprimands or final warnings, as well as convictions. The cost of this application will be met by the School. Annually, every member of staff at the School is required to undergo, complete, and sign to confirm that they have received child protection training and will uphold it.
Business Director in Edinburgh employer: The Independent Schools Council
Contact Detail:
The Independent Schools Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Director in Edinburgh
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector or related fields. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Loretto School and its values. Show us how your vision aligns with theirs, and don’t forget to highlight your leadership skills and strategic thinking!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills. Whether it’s a formal interview or a casual chat, being able to articulate your thoughts clearly will set you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative!
We think you need these skills to ace Business Director in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Audience: Before you start writing, take a moment to understand Loretto School's values and mission. Tailor your application to reflect how your experience aligns with their vision for education and leadership.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a Business Director, you'll need to demonstrate your senior leadership abilities. Use specific examples from your past roles to highlight your strategic thinking and ability to build collaborative relationships.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward. Avoid jargon and ensure your points are clear. This will help the selection committee quickly grasp your qualifications and fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application directly through the ISBA website as instructed. This ensures your application is received properly and gives you the best chance of being considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Independent Schools Council
✨Know the School's Vision
Before your interview, take some time to research Loretto School's history, values, and vision. Understanding their commitment to education and how they integrate tradition with modern facilities will help you align your responses with their ethos.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Business Director, you'll need to demonstrate your senior leadership abilities. Prepare specific examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led teams or projects, particularly in financial operations or strategic planning.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Engagement
Given the importance of collaboration with external stakeholders, think about how you can illustrate your interpersonal and communication skills. Be ready to discuss how you've built effective relationships in previous roles and how you would approach this at Loretto.
✨Demonstrate Financial Acumen
Brush up on your financial judgement and commercial appraisal skills. Be prepared to discuss financial strategies you've implemented in the past and how they contributed to operational success. This will show that you have the robust financial insight needed for the role.
