School Business Manager – Outstanding Secondary School – Nottingham
Start Date: As soon as possible
Contract: Full-time, Permanent
Salary: Paid to scale (Leadership & Business Management Band)

School Information

This Outstanding 11–18 secondary school in Nottingham (West Bridgford area) is nationally recognised for its exceptional leadership, academic excellence, and strong operational systems. The school has grown significantly in recent years and continues to expand its facilities, including new ICT suites, a recently refurbished sports complex, and a state-of-the-art performing arts block.

The school has a reputation for professional excellence, strategic vision, and a supportive working culture. Staff benefit from a strong CPD programme, a healthy work–life balance, and efficient administrative systems that allow the focus to remain on student achievement.

The school community is diverse, ambitious, and culturally rich. Governors work closely with senior leadership to ensure financial stability, operational efficiency, and high standards across all non-teaching functions.

Role Information

The school is seeking an experienced, strategic, and proactive School Business Manager (SBM) to oversee finance, HR, site operations, compliance, and administration. You will play a key senior leadership role ensuring the smooth running of all non-teaching aspects of the school.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading the school’s financial management, including budget planning and monitoring

• Preparing financial reports for the Headteacher, SLT, and Governing Body

• Overseeing the HR function, including recruitment, absence monitoring, and compliance

• Leading site and facilities management, ensuring health & safety compliance

• Overseeing school lettings, contracts, procurement, and value-for-money operations

• Managing administrative teams, office staff, and operational leaders

• Developing long-term financial and estates strategies

• Ensuring legal, audit, and safeguarding compliance across administrative operations

• Working with external agencies, the LA, auditors, contractors, and suppliers

• Supporting risk management and emergency planning procedures

• Managing the SBM office and maintaining efficient school-wide processes

This is a high-impact leadership role requiring excellent communication, organisational skills, and strategic insight.

Requirements

• Business or finance qualification (CSBM, DSBM, AAT, CIPD, or equivalent)

• Strong experience in finance, HR, or operations within a school or similar setting

• Deep understanding of compliance, safeguarding, and regulatory frameworks

• Strong IT and financial systems capability

• Exceptional organisational skills and the ability to multi-task at a senior level

• Leadership experience in managing staff and teams

• Ability to work under pressure and meet strict deadlines

• Commitment to maintaining the school’s high standards of excellence

Application

To apply, please send your CV as soon as possible.