School Business Manager – Outstanding Secondary School – Preston

School Business Manager Outstanding Secondary School Preston

Start Date: As soon as possible
Contract: Full-time Permanent
Salary: Paid to scale

School Information

This Outstanding 1118 secondary school in Preston is recognised for its strong leadership exceptional academic results and commitment to delivering a broad and ambitious curriculum. Serving a diverse and aspirational community the school combines high expectations with a nurturing inclusive ethos.

The school has modern facilities including newly refurbished science laboratories specialist creative arts spaces a well-equipped Sixth Form centre and digitally enhanced classrooms. Behaviour is excellent attendance is consistently high and students demonstrate a strong sense of pride in their learning environment.

Leadership places a strong emphasis on operational excellence ensuring that finance estates HR and compliance systems are robust and aligned with strategic priorities. The governing body is highly engaged and works closely with the senior leadership team to maintain high standards and ensure long-term sustainability.

As part of continued growth and development the school is seeking a strategic and experienced School Business Manager (SBM).

Role Overview

The School Business Manager will be a key member of the senior leadership team responsible for overseeing the non-teaching operational functions of the school.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading financial planning budgeting and forecasting processes

• Managing procurement and ensuring cost-effective use of resources

• Overseeing HR functions including recruitment compliance and staff contracts

• Managing premises estates and health & safety compliance

• Preparing reports for governors and contributing to strategic planning

• Leading administrative and support staff teams

• Ensuring compliance with safeguarding and statutory regulations

• Overseeing risk management and operational policies

• Supporting capital projects and site improvements

• Managing contracts with external providers

This role requires strong leadership financial acumen and the ability to balance operational detail with strategic oversight.

Operations & Leadership Team Information

The SBM works directly with the Headteacher and Deputy Head to shape operational strategy. The support team includes finance officers HR administrators premises staff and office administrators. The school uses established digital systems for finance HR and compliance.

The culture is collaborative professional and improvement-focused.

Candidate Requirements

• Significant experience in school business management or operations leadership

• Strong financial management and budgeting expertise

• Knowledge of HR legislation and compliance frameworks

• Understanding of health and safety regulations

• Excellent leadership and communication skills

• Strategic thinking and strong organisational ability

• Professional integrity and confidentiality

• Commitment to safeguarding and inclusive practice

Application

To apply please send your CV as soon as possible.