Job Description

Are you an exceptional School Business Manager (SBM) with a proven school/MAT background seeking a strategic leadership role with flexible hybrid working? Join our thriving Secondary Academy in Blackpool, starting in January 2026 (or sooner). This pivotal role offers a highly competitive salary of £55,000-£65,000 to drive operational excellence.

The Role: Strategic Leadership with Flexibility

We require a strategic and highly effective School Business Manager to oversee all non-teaching aspects of our vibrant secondary academy. You will be a key member of the Senior Leadership Team (SLT), ensuring all operational functions-Finance, HR, Estates, and Administration-are robust, compliant, and directly support our educational vision.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Financial Strategy: Lead the strategic planning, forecasting, and management of the academy's budget (c. £X million), ensuring compliance with ESFA regulations and achieving long-term sustainability.

  • Operational Management: Oversee all site services, facilities management, procurement, Health & Safety, and capital projects (e.g., CIF bids).

  • HR Leadership: Direct the non-teaching HR function, ensuring efficient payroll, effective recruitment, and compliance with employment law.

  • Governance: Prepare financial reports and attend Governing Body/Trustee meetings, providing strategic insight into resource management.

Essential Requirement: School Sector Expertise (MUST HAVE)

To be considered for this high-impact role, you must demonstrate significant, recent experience working directly within a school, academy, or Multi-Academy Trust (MAT) setting.

  • Required Experience: Proven success as a School Business Manager (SBM), Finance Manager, or Senior Leader within the education sector, managing significant school budgets.

  • Sector Knowledge: Expert understanding of school funding, statutory accounts, and operational compliance unique to the academy landscape.

  • Qualifications: Relevant professional qualification (e.g., CSBM, DSBM, CIPFA, CIMA, or equivalent experience).

Unbeatable Package: Flexibility & High Salary

We are committed to attracting the best talent to Blackpool by offering an exceptional package:

  • Salary: Highly competitive pay between £55,000 and £65,000 per annum.

  • Working Arrangement: Hybrid working option allowing for flexible remote work, balanced with essential on-site presence required for leadership and operational oversight.

  • Benefits: Generous annual leave allowance (plus bank holidays), access to a relevant pension scheme, and outstanding professional development.

Apply Now for a January 2026 Start!

If you are a dedicated, high-calibre School Business Manager with the required school sector experience and are looking for a fulfilling leadership role with flexibility in Blackpool, apply today! We are looking to appoint promptly for a January 2026 start.

Click 'Apply Now' to download the full Candidate Information Pack.

Our Academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment.