School Business Manager - Primary School - Reading

A well-regarded primary school in Reading is seeking an experienced, organised and proactive School Business Manager to join its leadership and operations team. This is an excellent opportunity for a skilled professional who can combine strong financial and administrative oversight with strategic thinking, calm leadership and a clear commitment to supporting a thriving school community.

The school has a warm, inclusive ethos, clear routines and a strong focus on pupil wellbeing, safeguarding and high standards. The School Business Manager plays a vital role in ensuring the school’s operational, financial and administrative functions run effectively, allowing leaders and teachers to focus on delivering excellent education and care for pupils.

About the Role

As School Business Manager , you will lead and oversee key operational areas of the school, working closely with the Headteacher , senior leaders, governors and support staff. You will help ensure that financial planning, administration, compliance and site-related processes are managed efficiently, professionally and in line with school priorities.

Key responsibilities will include:

Leading financial planning, monitoring and reporting, including budgeting and cost control
Supporting strategic decision-making through clear operational and financial insight
Managing aspects of HR administration, recruitment coordination and personnel processes
Overseeing contracts, procurement and service-level agreements to ensure value for money
Supporting compliance across safeguarding, health and safety, data protection and statutory procedures
Line managing relevant support staff and contributing to effective team organisation
Working with school leaders and governors to ensure strong operational planning and accountability
Helping ensure the smooth day-to-day running of the school across administration, premises and business functions

This is a varied and influential role that requires strong organisation, sound judgement and the ability to balance strategic oversight with effective day-to-day management.

The Team

You will join a supportive and committed school team where collaboration, professionalism and shared purpose are highly valued. The School Business Manager works closely with leadership, office staff and wider support teams, playing a central role in ensuring systems are efficient, compliant and responsive to the needs of the school community.

The school values practical problem-solving, clear communication and a positive approach to leadership. Staff are encouraged to take pride in their work and contribute actively to the continued success of the school.

About the School

This Reading primary school serves a welcoming and diverse community and has established a positive, nurturing culture where pupils are encouraged to feel safe, supported and ready to learn. Strong relationships with families, clear safeguarding systems and a commitment to inclusion are central to the school’s work.

Leaders place high value on effective operational support and recognise the importance of strong business leadership in helping the school achieve its wider educational aims. Staff benefit from a collaborative working environment where contribution and expertise are respected.

Key Information
Location: Reading
Start Date: ASAP / next term (or by agreement)
Contract: Full-time, permanent (or as agreed)
Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience

What the School is Looking For

The successful candidate will ideally have:

Experience in school business management, finance, operations or a similar leadership role
Strong financial understanding, including budgeting, monitoring and reporting
Excellent organisational and administrative skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities
Confidence leading operational processes and supporting strategic planning
Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with leaders, staff and governors
Understanding of compliance, safeguarding, confidentiality and professional standards

School-based experience is highly desirable, though candidates with relevant transferable experience in business, operations or finance may also be considered.

Why Join This School

Key leadership role in a welcoming and well-regarded primary school
Opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the operational success of the school
Supportive leadership team and collaborative working culture
Varied and purposeful role with both strategic and day-to-day responsibility
Welcoming Reading school community focused on pupil wellbeing and success

This is an excellent opportunity for a School Business Manager who wants to play a central role in supporting high-quality education, strong operations and a positive school community in a Reading primary school.