School Business Manager — High-Achieving Academy — January 2026

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Do you want to work in a forward-thinking academy with a strong operational culture?

• School Business Manager

• Full time | Permanent

• January 2026

• Dynamic and well-resourced Operations department

A popular and oversubscribed academy in Reading is seeking a School Business Manager to begin in January 2026. The academy welcomes applications from experienced SBMs as well as Finance/HR/Operations leaders seeking progression into a whole-school strategic role.

School Information

This mixed 11–18 academy, graded ‘Outstanding’, educates around 1,300 pupils and enjoys an excellent reputation for nurturing ambition, promoting inclusivity, and securing consistently high academic results. Located close to Reading town centre, the school benefits from strong rail, bus, and motorway links, providing convenient access for staff across Berkshire and the Thames Valley.

The Operations function is central to the school’s success. The department includes teams for HR, Finance, Data, IT, Premises, and Administration. The SBM will work closely with the Principal and Trust Central Team to lead financial planning, estates development, compliance, and operational strategy.

The school boasts modern teaching blocks, upgraded IT infrastructure, specialist STEM facilities, and excellent outdoor spaces. The academy continues to expand its post-16 provision, and the SBM will play a key role in capacity planning, timetabling support, and resource allocation.

Extracurricular involvement ranges from STEM competitions and Duke of Edinburgh to sports partnerships and community volunteering. Staff development is prioritised, with extensive CPD opportunities and collaborative trust-wide training.

Experience and Qualifications

• Prior experience in school operations, finance, HR, or business management

• Recognised qualification in Business Management, Finance, HR, or equivalent desirable

• Strong financial acumen, budgeting, and reporting skills

• Experience leading teams across HR, premises, IT, or administration

• Knowledge of school compliance, safeguarding, and statutory requirements

• Ability to work strategically with SLT and Trust leadership

Salary

Salary for this School Business Manager position will be paid to scale according to experience.

Application – School Business Manager

Please submit your application for this School Business Manager role at your earliest opportunity.