School Business Manager - Whitehouse Common Primary School

Whitehouse Common Primary School is a warm, happy, thriving and forward-thinking school. We are part of the Learning Trust for Excellence (LTE), a Co-operative Trust where member schools maintain independence and autonomy while supporting each other to provide the best educational opportunities for all our children.

We are seeking a proactive and highly skilled School Business Manager to join our welcoming team. In this pivotal role, you will support both the strategic and operational functions of our school.

As the School Business Manager, you will be a key member of our Senior Leadership Team (SLT) and work closely with the Headteacher to drive the school’s strategic direction. You will oversee a range of business functions, including finance, HR and personnel, site management, health and safety, catering, and IT. This role requires strong leadership skills, exceptional attention to detail, and a strategic vision to ensure the smooth and effective operation of our school. As with any school, you should be prepared for a dynamic environment where quick thinking, teamwork, leadership, and a hands-on approach are essential.

The Foundation Status that we have provides autonomy of policies and procedures outside those of the LA where appropriate; you will be instrumental in reviewing and implementing these alongside our HR Advisors.

We are a Full Cheque Book School using Access Finance Package with a balanced budget and a healthy carry forward balance.

You will be required to work occasional days during the school holidays.

Key Responsibilities:

• provide professional leadership and management to support the Senior Office Manager in leading the administrative team
• oversee the strategic and operational aspects of the school’s financial resource management, including budgeting, accounting, and financial reporting, ensuring accuracy and transparency
• manage and be a strategic lead for HR, legal matters, IT, site management, health and safety, catering and other operational aspects to maintain a safe and effective learning environment
• ensure compliance with all relevant regulations, policies, and best practices in financial and operational management
• maximise financial resources by generating income, applying for funding, and ensuring best value for money
• develop and implement strategic plans to enhance operational efficiency and support the school’s long-term goals
• collaborate closely with the Senior Leadership Team to align business strategies with educational objectives and drive school improvement

What we’re looking for:

• proven expertise in HR management, with a track record of leading and motivating staff
• strong strategic vision with the ability to implement effective operational strategies
• high attention to detail and accuracy in financial and administrative tasks
• excellent accounting and financial management skills, including experience with budgeting and financial planning
• ability to collaborate effectively with the SLT and other stakeholders to support the school’s objectives

What we offer:

• a highly supportive and collaborative leadership team and governing body
• a dedicated administrative team
• opportunities for professional development
• a positive and engaging working environment
• access to excellent facilities and resources to support your work
• flexibility with regard to working arrangements
• a happy and vibrant school with a strong family ethos and community spirit

Further details about the School:

We are fortunate to have a large site split into KS1 and KS2 buildings, ample staff parking, two large playing fields, three playgrounds, swimming pool, a wooded area for forest school activities, and two school halls.

Please go to the school website for the application information

Please apply by submitting a completed application form and cover letter by post or email to: h.dodd@whitehousecommon.bham.sch.uk by 27th September 2024.

References may be requested upon receipt of your application.

For more information, please contact Helen Dodd at h.dodd@whitehousecommon.bham.sch.uk.

Visits to the school are warmly welcomed and can be arranged by contacting Helen Dodd as above.