School Finance and Operations Manager

Finance and Operations Manager - Primary School, BlackburnImmediate Start - Temporary position with the potential to become permanent

Tradewind Recruitment is working with a Primary School in Blackburn, part of a Multi-Academy Trust, to recruit a skilled and proactive Finance and Operations Manager to start as soon as possible.

This is a temporary role with the potential to become permanent for the right candidate. The successful applicant will be responsible for the effective leadership of the school's financial management and day-to-day operations.

Key Purpose of the Role:

The Finance and Operations Manager will lead on all aspects of finance, administration, and operational support, ensuring the school runs efficiently and in line with Trust and regulatory guidelines. This role is pivotal in supporting the Headteacher with the non-teaching management of the school.

Key Relationships:

The postholder will work closely with the Headteacher, Chief Finance Officer, Trust Finance Lead, Trust Business Lead, and central Trust team to deliver a professional and compliant business function.

Main Responsibilities:

Finance Management:

• Prepare monthly management accounts, including income and expenditure reports and variance analysis.

• Oversee budget setting, forecasting, and reforecasting in collaboration with school and Trust leaders.

• Maintain accurate financial records, including petty cash, school trip funds, and departmental budgets.

• Ensure timely processing of financial transactions in line with Trust procedures.

• Support payroll reconciliation and monitor staffing budgets via the Trust's finance systems.

• Provide financial reports to the Headteacher and Local Governing Board.

• Assist with audit preparations and ensure compliance with the ESFA and Trust finance policies.

Operations & Administration:

• Lead and manage non-teaching operational areas, including site services, health and safety, procurement, and HR support.

• Oversee the smooth running of daily school administration and support functions.

• Ensure that the school operates in compliance with statutory and Trust policies.

• Liaise with external suppliers and contractors to ensure value for money and quality of service.

• Support business continuity planning and risk management.

Team Management & Communication:

• Supervise and support administrative and finance staff to deliver efficient school operations.

• Ensure accurate handling of cash and card payments, including reconciliations and banking.

• Promote effective communication between the school, Trust central team, and external partners.

• Contribute to the strategic planning of school resources and support long-term development.

This is a fantastic opportunity for a dynamic professional to make a meaningful impact in a thriving Primary School. If you are ready to bring your financial and operational expertise to a role where you can really make a difference, we'd love to hear from you. Please contact Matt Ball on or email