Business Manager

Business Manager

Full-Time 30000 - 40000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Provide top-notch administrative support to the Headmaster and manage a variety of tasks.
  • Company: Join a vibrant independent school community focused on excellence.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Other info: Dynamic role with flexible hours and excellent career development opportunities.
  • Why this job: Be at the heart of school life, making a real difference every day.
  • Qualifications: Strong organisational skills and a proactive attitude; educational experience is a plus.

The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.

We are currently seeking to fill the position of PA to the Headmaster and CEO. We are seeking an experienced, highly organised and forward-thinking PA to join Strathallan in the pivotal role of PA to the Headmaster & CEO. This is a varied and rewarding position at the heart of a busy and ambitious school community, offering the opportunity to work closely with senior leadership and contribute meaningfully to the smooth running of the School.

The successful candidate will possess exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, providing a warm, professional and efficient service to parents, visitors and colleagues alike. Acting as a key point of contact, the post-holder will manage a wide range of administrative and organisational responsibilities with discretion, accuracy and a strong sense of initiative. No two days will be the same; the role requires someone who is adaptable, calm under pressure and able to respond positively to the fast-paced and often unpredictable nature of school life.

The ability to anticipate needs, prioritise effectively and maintain the highest levels of confidentiality is essential, alongside a willingness to take ownership of tasks and see them through to completion. While experience within an educational setting would be advantageous, it is by no means essential. We welcome applications from individuals with strong administrative and organisational experience from a range of professional backgrounds, who are keen to bring their skills into a dynamic and purpose-driven environment.

The role is expected to include, but is not limited to, the below key responsibilities:

  • Provide comprehensive, proactive and highly confidential administrative support to the Headmaster.
  • Manage the Headmaster’s diary, appointments and correspondence, ensuring effective prioritisation and forward planning.
  • Act as the first point of contact for the Headmaster, responding to routine enquiries and directing more complex matters appropriately.
  • Draft, prepare and manage correspondence, reports, presentations and documentation on behalf of the Headmaster.
  • Ensure the Headmaster is fully prepared for all meetings, with relevant papers, briefings and notes provided in advance.
  • Arrange and coordinate travel, accommodation and itineraries, including visa requirements where necessary.
  • Organise meetings and events, including preparing agendas, taking accurate minutes, and overseeing hospitality arrangements.
  • Support the delivery of key school events involving the Headmaster, including Speech Day and formal entertainments.
  • Liaise effectively with parents, Governors, senior leaders and external stakeholders on behalf of the Headmaster.
  • Maintain and develop efficient administrative systems, ensuring compliance with data protection requirements.
  • Manage pupil records and produce relevant reports and distribution lists in collaboration with Admissions.
  • Coordinate the Headmaster’s expenses, budgets, and associated administrative processes.
  • Support project work and undertake research as directed by the Headmaster.
  • Manage and prioritise the Headmaster’s workload within the context of a busy, seven-day boarding environment.
  • Oversee Reception operations, ensuring appropriate cover and a high standard of front-of-house service.

Hours of work: The normal working hours are 08.45 – 17:00 (Monday—Friday) with a break for lunch. There may be an occasional requirement for flexibility in working hours to support the needs of the school. The postholder will be required to work up to six Saturdays per year (8.30am to 12.30pm) to provide weekend reception cover as part of the wider Administration team. Ideally this role would commence on or around the 15th of June, however a later start date can be discussed.

If you would like to apply, please submit your application online by 17th May 2026. The interviews will be arranged shortly after (on or around the 21st or 22nd of May). For any queries regarding the role or the application process, or to arrange an initial conversation, please contact us at: hr@strathallan.co.uk.

Business Manager employer: Windlesham House School

Strathallan School is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and purpose-driven environment where employees can thrive. With a strong focus on professional development and a supportive work culture, staff are encouraged to grow and contribute meaningfully to the school community. Located in the picturesque Leicestershire countryside, the school provides a unique opportunity to engage with a diverse range of stakeholders while enjoying a fulfilling work-life balance.
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Contact Detail:

Windlesham House School Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Business Manager

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector or even those who know someone at Strathallan. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to insider info about the role and might just give you that edge.

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for the interview by researching the school’s values and recent achievements. We want to see how you can align your skills with their mission, so think about how your experience can contribute to their goals.

✨Tip Number 3

Practice your communication skills! As a PA, you'll need to be warm and professional. Try mock interviews with friends or family to get comfortable with articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Strathallan community.

We think you need these skills to ace Business Manager

Interpersonal Skills
Communication Skills
Organisational Skills
Administrative Support
Diary Management
Confidentiality
Event Coordination
Minute Taking
Stakeholder Liaison
Data Protection Compliance
Budget Management
Research Skills
Adaptability
Initiative
Problem-Solving Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the PA role. Highlight your organisational skills and any relevant experience that shows you can handle a busy environment like Strathallan.

Show Off Your Communication Skills: Since this role involves a lot of interaction with parents and colleagues, let your communication skills shine through in your application. Use clear and professional language, and don’t forget to proofread!

Be Specific About Your Experience: When detailing your past roles, focus on specific tasks that relate to the responsibilities listed in the job description. This will help us see how your background fits perfectly with what we need.

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role without any hiccups!

How to prepare for a job interview at Windlesham House School

✨Know the Role Inside Out

Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of the PA to the Headmaster & CEO. Familiarise yourself with the key tasks mentioned in the job description, such as managing diaries and correspondence. This will help you demonstrate how your skills align perfectly with what they’re looking for.

✨Showcase Your Interpersonal Skills

Since this role requires exceptional communication skills, be prepared to share examples of how you've effectively interacted with various stakeholders in previous positions. Think about times when you’ve had to manage difficult conversations or provide excellent service under pressure.

✨Demonstrate Adaptability

The school environment can be unpredictable, so it’s crucial to show that you can adapt quickly. Prepare anecdotes that highlight your ability to handle changing priorities and remain calm under pressure. This will reassure them that you can thrive in a busy setting.

✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions

At the end of the interview, you’ll likely have the chance to ask questions. Use this opportunity to inquire about the school’s culture, the Headmaster’s leadership style, or upcoming projects. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.

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