Are you an experienced and strategic leader with a passion for operational excellence in education? A large
Secondary School in
Bolton are seeking a highly motivated
School Business Manager (SBM) to join their team on a
permanent basis and play a pivotal role in managing the business functions of the school. This is an exciting opportunity to make a real impact by ensuring the school runs efficiently and effectively, allowing their leadership team to focus on teaching and learning.
Location: Bolton, BL3
Salary: £39,862 – £45,091 DOE
Contract: Full-Time, Permanent
Hours: Full time, full year round
Start Date: ASAP
As School Business Manager, you will be responsible for:
- Leading on finance, HR, health & safety, compliance, and administration across the school.
- Managing and developing support teams, including site, admin, finance, and IT staff.
- Advising senior leaders on strategic decisions and implementing operational plans aligned with the school’s vision and improvement priorities.
- Ensuring compliance with statutory obligations and Trust policies.
- Driving efficiency and value for money through effective resource planning and procurement.
Key Responsibilities
- Financial Management: Oversee budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting; ensure compliance with DfE and Trust requirements.
- Human Resources: Manage recruitment, onboarding, payroll processes, absence tracking, and staff development in line with employment law.
- Health & Safety & Compliance: Act as Health & Safety Officer; ensure risk assessments, training, and statutory checks are completed.
- Administration & Data Protection: Maintain accurate records, act as Data Protection Officer, and ensure GDPR compliance.
- Leadership: Line manage support staff, lead on operational strategy, and contribute to whole-school improvement planning.
What We’re Looking For
- Proven experience in school business management or a similar leadership role.
- Strong financial acumen and experience managing budgets.
- Knowledge of HR practices, health & safety regulations, and compliance requirements in an educational setting.
- Excellent organisational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to lead and develop multi-disciplinary teams.
- Experience in a secondary school or UTC setting.
- Proactive, solution-focused approach and commitment to staff wellbeing.
Benefits:
- Be part of a forward-thinking Trust committed to excellence and inclusion.
- 26 days of Annual Leave plus Bank Holidays (increasing to 31 days after 5 years’ service)
- Work in a collaborative environment where your expertise makes a difference.
- Benefit from a dedicated wellness day and additional day of leave to support your work-life balance.
- Access to excellent CPD, training, and development opportunities to enhance your career.
- Access to an Employee Assistance Programme and Eye-Care Scheme
- Local Government Pension Scheme
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or forward your CV directly to Amy on amy.rowley@hays.com
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.
- Amy Rowley
