School Business Manager

Job Description

Are you an exceptional strategic leader ready to make a transformational impact at an ambitious, high‑performing and award‑winning secondary school? Adecco Romford & London East is seeking a skilled, driven and experienced School Business Leader to join a senior leadership team, playing a pivotal role in shaping the School’s continued journey to outstanding.

The School is a thriving, oversubscribed 11–19 co‑educational comprehensive school in London with state‑of‑the‑art facilities, high aspirations and nationally recognised success!

Reporting to the Headteacher, the School Business Leader will lead and develop the school’s financial, HR, administrative, estates and commercial functions — ensuring that each area operates with excellence, compliance and efficiency.

Key priorities include:

Financial Leadership

• Lead the strategic financial planning, monitoring and reporting of the school’s budget
• Manage complex and multi‑strand budgets in excess of £3 million, ensuring strong control, value for money and long‑term sustainability
• Provide high‑level financial analysis and advice to the Headteacher and Governing Body
• Oversee all financial systems, audits, cashflow processes, procurement and payroll arrangements

Human Resources Leadership

• Provide strategic oversight of all HR systems, policies and processes
• Lead safer recruitment, onboarding and safeguarding checks
• Advise senior leaders and governors on employment law, pay, contractual matters, absence, capability, grievance, restructuring and employee relations
• Oversee performance management and professional development for support staff
• Ensure robust HR compliance and the maintenance of secure personnel records

Operations, Estates and Compliance

• Lead the strategic management of the school’s facilities, health & safety, security and site development
• Ensure full compliance with all statutory requirements and best practice
• Oversee key contracts (FM, cleaning, grounds) and ensure high‑quality service delivery
• Support the effective management of the Sports Centre and wider lettings

Catering & Community Services

• Provide leadership of catering arrangements and contractual performance

About You:

We are seeking an experienced and confident leader who can bring:

• Proven experience managing large, complex budgets (minimum £3m)
• Strong HR leadership expertise, including employee relations and employment law
• Experience in financial planning, facilities management, compliance, procurement and operations
• Excellent communication, analytical and organisational skills
• The ability to inspire, influence and develop high‑performing teams
• Experience in a school setting or a complex organisation with similar demands
• A proactive, solution‑focused mindset and a commitment to continuous improvement

This role is ideal for a highly skilled professional who thrives in a busy, strategic environment and is passionate about supporting educational excellence. If you would like more information on our School Business Leader position, please call Denise or Anna at Adecco Romford & London East ASAP.