School Business Manager

An exceptional opportunity has arisen for an experienced and highly capable School Business Manager (SBM) to join a well-regarded secondary school in Portsmouth , playing a key role in the strategic and day-to-day running of the school’s business functions. This is a senior operational post for someone who enjoys responsibility, thrives in a fast-paced environment and takes pride in building clear systems that support staff, pupils and families. Working closely with the Headteacher and senior leadership team, you will ensure finance, compliance, premises and operational processes are robust, efficient and aligned to the school’s priorities. About the Role As School Business Manager , you will provide strategic and operational leadership across the school’s non-teaching functions, ensuring the school is financially sustainable, well organised and compliant. Key responsibilities will include: • Leading school finance , including budgeting, forecasting, monitoring spend and reporting to senior leaders/governors • Managing procurement, contracts and supplier relationships to ensure value for money • Overseeing day-to-day operations, ensuring admin systems are efficient and consistent • Supporting HR administration processes (recruitment coordination, contracts, staffing records and procedures) • Overseeing premises and health & safety, ensuring compliance, risk management and effective maintenance planning • Ensuring strong compliance systems, including accurate records, policies and audit readiness • Supporting safeguarding systems operationally (visitor procedures, site safety, secure information handling) • Line managing relevant support staff and developing a professional, service-led team culture This role suits a confident, solutions-focused leader who can balance strategic planning with day-to-day operational priorities. 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 senior leaders and operational staff to: • Maintain smooth daily operations • Strengthen systems that protect learning time and support safeguarding • Improve efficiency, communication and service quality across the school • Ensure the school is well prepared for key deadlines and compliance requirements About the School This Portsmouth secondary school serves a diverse community and operates with clear routines and strong expectations. Professionalism, safeguarding and consistent systems are prioritised, creating a setting where an SBM can have real impact through effective planning, strong compliance and well-managed resources. Key Information • Location: Portsmouth • 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 finance/operations leadership (education or similar setting) • Strong knowledge of budgeting, procurement, compliance and operational planning • Excellent organisational and communication skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities • Confidence working with senior leaders and reporting clearly on finance and operational performance • Experience line managing staff and developing strong professional routines • A clear understanding of safeguarding, confidentiality and professional boundaries in schools • 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 • Senior leadership-facing 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 across finance, operations, premises and compliance • Make a meaningful difference by ensuring the school is well resourced and well run This is an excellent opportunity for a skilled School Business Manager who wants to play a central role in the smooth running and strategic development of a Portsmouth secondary school.