School Business Manager – Independent School, London
Location: London
Salary: £44,400 – £47,563 per annum
Contract: Full-Time, Permanent (All-Year Round)
Reporting to: Headteacher
Responsible for: Administrative Staff, Catering Staff, Facilities Staff

Are you a strategic thinker with a sharp eye for detail and a passion for supporting outstanding education? A dynamic Independent School in London is seeking a School Business Manager (SBM) to lead operational excellence across finance, HR, compliance, facilities, and administration.

This pivotal, full-time role (non-term time) is ideal for someone experienced, motivated, and kind – someone who brings both professionalism and heart to their work. You’ll be an integral part of the Senior Leadership Team, working closely with the Headteacher to ensure the smooth and efficient running of the school, enabling staff and students to thrive.

What You’ll Do:

Strategic Leadership & School Operations

• Lead, manage, and develop administrative, catering, and facilities teams.
• Work in close partnership with the Headteacher and SLT to drive school improvement through efficient operations and resource management.
• Contribute to school-wide planning and change management aligned with the School Development Plan.

Finance & Budget Management

• Maintain and monitor the school’s financial health, producing regular reports and forecasts.
• Oversee procurement, expenses, and funding streams including 1:1 provision where applicable.
• Ensure full compliance with financial protocols and maintain accurate records including petty cash, debit card usage, and the Asset Register.

Premises, Facilities & Health and Safety

• Manage site maintenance and liaise with contractors to ensure the building remains safe, secure, and compliant with Independent School Standards (ISS).
• Act as Health & Safety Lead and Fire Officer, maintaining robust risk assessments and emergency plans.
• Quality-assure all works and ensure value for money across all estate services.

Human Resources Administration

• Coordinate staff records, sickness and absence tracking, and contractor data.
• Support recruitment compliance and ensure a smooth induction and onboarding process.
• Liaise regularly with HR regarding safeguarding, staff wellbeing, and performance updates.

Data, ICT & Compliance

• Ensure GDPR compliance and manage the school’s MIS (preferably SIMS or Scholar Pack).
• Maintain accurate school records, including safeguarding, census returns, and Ofsted readiness.
• Provide high-quality reports and support SLT meetings with up-to-date data and insights.

Safeguarding & Culture

• Uphold the highest standards of child protection, safer recruitment, and safeguarding procedures.
• Promote a culture of kindness, respect, and inclusion across the school community.
• Contribute actively to school life with a hands-on, flexible approach.

What You’ll Bring:

• Level 4/5/6 qualification in School Business Management (or equivalent experience in a similar role).
• Strong leadership experience across school operations, including finance, HR, ICT, and premises.
• Knowledge of ISS regulations, safeguarding protocols, and independent school compliance standards.
• High proficiency in Microsoft Office and school MIS (preferably SIMS/Scholar Pack).
• Exceptional interpersonal and organisational skills, with a calm, professional approach in a fast-paced environment.
• Understanding of special educational needs, neurodiversity, and inclusive education practices (desirable).

What You Can Expect:

• A supportive, values-driven school culture that puts students at the heart of everything.
• The chance to shape and lead a high-performing support team.
• Real impact across multiple areas of school life – from finance to facilities to student wellbeing.
• Ongoing professional development and a collaborative working environment.

If you’re a resilient, organised, and kind professional ready to take the lead in a vital school leadership role, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply now or get in touch at ali.hussain@principaleducation.co.uk