School Business Manager – Primary School in Kent ASAP Start!

A successful and well-led primary school in Kent is seeking an experienced and strategically minded School Business Manager to take full responsibility for the financial operational and administrative leadership of the school. This is a senior post within the wider leadership structure and plays a critical role in ensuring the school operates efficiently compliantly and sustainably.

The Headteacher and Governors are looking for a confident professional who can combine strong financial management with operational oversight and the ability to contribute meaningfully to long-term strategic planning. This is not a purely administrative role it is a leadership position with real influence across the school.

The Role

• Leading the strategic management of the schools finances including annual budget setting forecasting monitoring and reporting

• Ensuring robust financial controls are in place and that all expenditure aligns with school priorities

• Preparing detailed financial reports for Governors and senior leaders

• Overseeing procurement contract negotiations and service-level agreements to ensure best value

• Managing payroll oversight pensions and financial compliance requirements

• Leading HR processes including recruitment administration safer recruitment compliance contracts and staff records

• Managing operational compliance including health & safety risk assessments and statutory reporting

• Line managing administrative and support staff supporting performance management and development

• Contributing to strategic school improvement planning alongside the Headteacher

The Ideal Candidate Will Have

• Significant experience as a School Business Manager or in senior school finance leadership

• A strong understanding of school funding structures and financial planning cycles

• Experience working with Governors and preparing financial reports

• Knowledge of HR processes employment law basics and safer recruitment requirements

• Strong organisational analytical and leadership skills

• The ability to manage competing priorities while maintaining attention to detail

• A professional confident and solutions-focused approach

Salary

Competitive leadership package dependent on experience and qualifications

Application

If you are an experienced School Business Manager seeking an immediate leadership opportunity in Kent we would be pleased to receive your application. Please submit a detailed CV outlining your financial management background leadership responsibilities and experience within an educational setting.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis due to the urgency of this appointment. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted promptly to discuss their experience in more detail and confirm interview availability. The school is keen to appoint swiftly but will ensure a thorough and robust recruitment process.

Early application is strongly encouraged as interviews may take place as soon as suitable candidates are identified.