School Business Manager
Salary: TBC
Hours: Full Time | Permanent
Location: OL15 Rochdale
About the Role:
We are seeking an experienced and strategic School Business Manager to lead all aspects of finance, operations, compliance, and support services across the organisation.
You will play a key leadership role in ensuring financial sustainability, operational efficiency, and high-quality support services that enable excellent educational outcomes.
Key ResponsibilitiesFinance & Strategy
- Lead financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and reporting
- Prepare statutory accounts and manage audit processes
- Ensure compliance with all financial regulations and governance requirements
- Provide financial insight to support strategic decision-making
- Work with senior leaders to set and manage multi-year budgets
Leadership & Operations
- Line manage finance, site, and support service teams
- Oversee procurement, contracts, and supplier relationships
- Ensure efficient use of resources across all operational areas
- Support senior leadership and trustees with financial governance
Governance & Compliance
- Act as Company Secretary and support Board governance processes
- Ensure compliance with DfE, Companies House, and audit requirements
- Produce high-quality financial and management reports
Estates & Capital Management
- Lead on premises strategy, capital projects, and asset management
- Oversee building projects, contractors, and compliance checks
- Support health & safety and facilities management across sites
Service Delivery
- Oversee catering, site services, and extended services operations
- Ensure high-quality, cost-effective support services across the organisation
What We’re Looking For
- Proven experience in senior finance or business management role
- Strong knowledge of financial governance and regulatory frameworks (ideally in education or public sector)
- Experience managing budgets, teams, and operational services
- Strong leadership, analytical, and decision-making skills
- Ability to work strategically with senior leaders and trustees
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
Essential Skills
- Financial leadership and budget management
- Strategic planning and operational oversight
- Team leadership and staff development
- Strong analytical and reporting skills
- ICT proficiency (including Excel and financial systems)
- Ability to manage competing priorities effectively
Personal Qualities
- Professional, confident, and proactive approach
- Strong sense of responsibility and accountability
- Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
- Collaborative and solution-focused mindset
- High level of integrity and discretion
Application question(s):
Experience:
- School Business Manager: 2 years (required)
Licence/Certification:
Work Location: In person
