School Business Manager - Outstanding Secondary School -...

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.