CORE PURPOSE

We are seeking an experienced, strategic, and highly commercial School Business Manager (SBM) to lead the non-pedagogical, financial, operational, and administrative functions of a high-performing secondary academy in Hackney. Reporting directly to the Headteacher and joining the Senior Leadership Team (SLT), the successful candidate will oversee a multi-million pound budget, lead site, HR, and IT operations, ensure statutory compliance, and maximize resource efficiency to support academic excellence.

THE SCHOOL

Set on a modern urban campus in Inner East London, this thriving secondary academy serves over 1,100 students aged 11–18. Operating within a collaborative regional Multi-Academy Trust framework, the school combines high academic standards with a strong commitment to student welfare and community inclusion. The business function acts as the strategic backbone of the academy, managing complex inner-London school funding models, capital development projects, and extensive community lettings while driving long-term financial sustainability.

KEY TASKS & DAILY OPERATIONS

• Strategic Financial Management: Lead financial planning, multi-year budget forecasting, monthly management accounts, and procurement strategies in compliance with the Academy Trust Handbook.

• Operational Leadership: Line manage non-teaching operational teams—including Finance, HR, Administration, Premises, and Catering—fostering a culture of high performance and service.

• HR & Payroll Oversight: Oversee HR compliance, safer recruitment practices, staff contracts, Single Central Record (SCR) maintenance, and payroll processing alongside trust HR specialists.

• Premises, Estates & Health & Safety: Supervise the Premises Manager to ensure campus security, health and safety compliance, estate maintenance, and contract management for major capital works.

• Governance & Income Generation: Prepare financial and operational reports for the Local Governing Body, manage audit processes, and identify commercial opportunities such as lettings and grant bids.

PROFILE REQUIREMENTS

• Qualifications: Degree in Business Administration, Finance, or Accounting, or a recognized professional SBM qualification (e.g., Level 4/5/6 Diploma in School Business Management / CSBM / DSBM, CIPFA, ACCA, or CIMA).

• Experience: Significant track record of senior business, operational, or financial management within a secondary school, academy trust, or educational environment.

• Skills: Expertise in educational finance systems (e.g., PS Financials, Access, or HCSS Budgeting), strong leadership capabilities, comprehensive knowledge of public sector procurement and HR regulations, and strategic decision-making ability.

REGIONAL CONTEXT

• Local Area & Community: Located in the vibrant Inner London Borough of Hackney, the academy serves a culturally rich and diverse community. Hackney combines historic streetscapes with cutting-edge tech corridors, creative districts, and renowned public spaces such as London Fields and Victoria Park.

• Transport & Commuting: Positioned in Inner East London, the school enjoys excellent public transport links via TfL bus networks and London Overground lines (including Hackney Central, Hackney Downs, and Dalston Junction), providing direct access into Liverpool Street, Stratford, and central rail lines.

APPLICATION INTAKE

Please submit your current CV to begin the application process.