A community secondary academy in Stockport, Greater Manchester, is seeking an experienced, commercially minded School Business Manager to direct operational finance, estates, HR, and compliance starting ASAP or in January.

Job Overview

The School Business Manager is a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, reporting directly to the Headteacher and Board of Governors. You will provide strategic leadership over the school's financial health, estate management, support staff operations, health and safety, and procurement processes.

You will lead a team of premises officers, administrative staff, finance assistants, and external contractors, ensuring that school operations run efficiently and comply with statutory DfE and ESFA standards. This is a full-time, permanent 52-week position.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct academy finances, revenue forecasting, balance sheet audits, and procurement compliance

• Line-manage operational teams across facilities maintenance, front-office administration, IT, and catering

• Oversee estates infrastructure, capital improvement bids (CIF), campus security, and health and safety audits

• Manage school HR functions, including recruitment checks, single central record (SCR) oversight, and payroll sign-off

• Drive commercial venue lettings and external community grant funding opportunities

• Prepare and present financial management accounts and statutory operational reports to the Trust Board

Role Overview & Specifications

• Start Date: Immediate (ASAP) or January

• Contract Type: Full-time, permanent contract (52-week post, 37 hours/week)

• Location: Stockport, Greater Manchester

• Salary / Pay Rate: PO5–PO7 / Leadership Scale equivalent (Dependent on experience)

• Key Systems: Access Education / PSF / SIMS / Arbor / Every Compliance

Candidate Requirements

• Diploma in School Business Management (DSBM / CSBM) or professional qualification in Finance, HR, or Operations (ACCA, CIPD, ILM)

• Proven track record of financial and operational leadership within an education, academy trust, or public sector setting

• Comprehensive knowledge of school funding models, Academies Financial Handbook guidelines, and estates compliance

• Strong team leadership, supplier negotiation, and contract management abilities

• An active enhanced DBS check on the Update Service (or willingness to apply)

How to Apply: Please send your CV at your earliest convenience to be considered for this School Business Manager position in Stockport.