School Business Manager – Outstanding Secondary School – Reading
School Business Manager – Outstanding Secondary School – Reading
Start Date: As soon as possible
Contract: Full-time, Permanent
Salary: Paid to scale
School Information
This Outstanding 11–18 secondary school in Reading is recognised for its exceptional leadership, excellent behaviour, and commitment to operational excellence. The school operates a large, modern campus with extensive facilities including sports halls, science labs, performance spaces, and newly upgraded ICT infrastructure.
The support staff and operations teams are highly valued, and the Business Manager plays a critical role in ensuring the school runs efficiently, safely, and strategically. Staff benefit from strong leadership, transparent communication, and a culture that values high standards, accountability, and collaboration.
Role Information
The school is seeking a dynamic, experienced, and strategic School Business Manager (SBM) to oversee finance, HR, site operations, health & safety, and compliance.
Key responsibilities include:
Leading and managing all non-teaching operations across the school
Strategic financial planning, budget management, forecasting, and financial reporting
Line managing administrative, HR, finance, and site teams
Ensuring compliance with statutory regulations, safeguarding policies, and audit requirements
Overseeing procurement, contracts, and value-for-money strategies
Managing payroll oversight and HR compliance in collaboration with HR leads
Leading on health & safety, risk assessments, and emergency planning
Supporting lettings, revenue generation, and community partnerships
Providing operational leadership to SLT and attending governor meetings
Ensuring the school’s resources, buildings, and financial systems are safe, efficient, and effective
This is a senior leadership-level operational role requiring strategic insight and strong leadership.
Requirements
Previous experience as an SBM or senior operations lead in a school
Strong financial background (CSBM, DSBM or finance qualification desirable)
Excellent leadership, communication, and organisational skills
Strong understanding of HR, health & safety, and safeguarding compliance
Experience managing budgets, teams, and complex operations
Ability to prioritise, delegate, and work proactively
High degree of professionalism, integrity, and confidentiality
Application
To apply, please send your CV as soon as possible.
- Locations
- Reading, Berkshire
About Marchant Recruitment
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