Job Description
School Business Manager - Primary School, BlackburnTemporary position with the potential to become permanent for the right candidate
Tradewind Recruitment is working with a Primary School in Blackburn, part of a Multi-Academy Trust, to recruit a proactive and experienced School Business Manager.
This is a temporary role, with the potential to become permanent for the right person. The successful candidate will play a crucial part in the strategic and operational management of the school's finances and business operations.
Key Purpose of the Role:
The School Business Manager will oversee the day-to-day financial, administrative, and operational functions of the school. Acting as a key liaison between the school and the Trust's central finance team, the postholder will provide strategic financial guidance while ensuring the smooth running of school business services.
Key Relationships:
The postholder will work closely with the Headteacher, Chief Finance Officer, Trust Finance Lead, Trust Business Lead, and wider Trust team to ensure effective financial management and communication.
Main Responsibilities:
Finance & Budgeting:
* Assist in the preparation of monthly management accounts and variance reports.
* Ensure timely and accurate month-end processes (e.g., accruals, prepayments).
* Monitor income and expenditure, identifying variances and working with school leadership to address them.
* Oversee the preparation and ongoing review of the annual school budget and multi-year financial plans.
* Present financial information to the school's Local Governing Board.
* Maintain accurate records of school income and expenditure, including petty cash, pupil payments, and departmental budgets.
* Support payroll reconciliation and ensure staffing budgets are accurately maintained.
* Provide financial information for Trust-wide reporting and audits.
Operational & Administrative Leadership:
* Manage key business functions including procurement, premises, health & safety, and HR support in coordination with the Trust.
* Ensure school operations comply with the Trust's financial policies and the ESFA Academies Trust Handbook.
* Liaise with the central Trust finance team to ensure efficient processing of financial transactions.
Compliance & Development:
* Keep up to date with changes in education funding, policies, and legal requirements.
* Ensure the school remains compliant with safeguarding procedures related to finance and operations.
* Develop systems and processes to improve operational efficiency and value for money.
Staff and Systems Oversight:
* Provide oversight and guidance to school-based administrative and finance staff.
* Support training and development for administrative personnel in line with Trust expectations.
* Manage school procurement activities, including the use of procurement cards and ordering procedures.
If you're an experienced and driven professional looking to make a positive impact in a vibrant primary school environment, we'd love to hear from you. This is a fantastic opportunity to join a supportive Trust with the possibility of a long-term role. please contact