School Business Manager (SBM) – Primary School – Ilford (London)

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced and highly organised School Business Manager (SBM) to join a well-regarded primary school in Ilford. This is a key senior operational role ideal for someone who enjoys responsibility thrives in a fast-paced environment and takes pride in building strong systems that help a school run smoothly.

Working closely with the Headteacher and senior leadership team you will lead on the schools business functions ensuring finance premises HR administration and compliance are managed effectively so staff can focus on delivering excellent outcomes for pupils.

About the Role

As School Business Manager you will provide strategic and day-to-day leadership across the schools non-teaching operations. You will be trusted to run key systems manage resources wisely and ensure the school remains compliant safe and well organised.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Leading the schools finance function including budgeting forecasting monitoring spend and reporting

• Managing procurement contracts and supplier relationships to ensure strong value for money

• Overseeing administrative systems and supporting the effective running of the school office

• Supporting HR administration (recruitment coordination contracts staffing records and procedures)

• Overseeing premises management and ensuring effective planning for maintenance and improvements

• Ensuring robust compliance including policies GDPR-aware processes and audit readiness

• Supporting safeguarding systems from an operational perspective (visitor procedures site safety record handling)

• Line managing relevant support staff and developing a professional service-led culture

This is a role for someone who can work calmly under pressure balance competing priorities and take a solutions-focused approach.

The Team

You will join a collaborative leadership team where the SBM role is respected and central to school success. You will work closely with the Headteacher senior leaders and admin staff to ensure:

• Daily operations run smoothly

• Systems are consistent and reliable

• Communication is professional and clear

• Resources are managed strategically and effectively

About the School

This Ilford primary school serves a diverse community and has strong routines and clear expectations that support a calm purposeful school day. The school values professionalism teamwork and doing things properly making it an excellent setting for an SBM who enjoys building strong systems and supporting leaders.

Key Information

• Location: Ilford (London Borough of Redbridge)

• 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 have:

• Proven experience in school business management or senior operational/finance leadership (education or similar setting)

• Strong knowledge of budgeting procurement compliance and operational planning

• Excellent organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities

• Confidence leading staff and working closely with senior leaders

• High levels of professionalism discretion and attention to detail

• A clear understanding of safeguarding confidentiality and working in a school environment

• The legal right to work in the UK

A relevant qualification (e.g. CSBM/DSBM finance HR operations) is desirable but strong experience and impact are most important.

Why Join This School

• Key leadership role with real influence on school success

• Opportunity to shape systems and improve operational efficiency

• Supportive leadership team and collaborative working culture

• Varied high-trust role with responsibility across finance operations and compliance

• Make a meaningful contribution to pupils experience by supporting excellent provision

This is a fantastic opportunity for a skilled School Business Manager who wants to play a central role in the smooth running and strategic development of a busy Ilford primary school.