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School business managers

A school business manager (SBM) is a member of staff who helps to ensure the smooth and successful running of a school. SBMs support headteachers in dealing with the leadership, managerial and administrative duties that confront them.

Staff who fulfil the role may have a number of job titles other than school business manager, including bursar, finance officer and senior administration officer.

An SBM's areas of responsibility include:

  • Strategic and operational management of finances, human resources and facilities
  • Line management and the professional development of support staff
  • Marketing and communications
The benefits of school business managers
How SBMs can help schools free up resources and leadership time.
Develop or recruit a school business manager
Existing staff can get qualifications and training to become SBMs or you can recruit externally.
Training available for school business managers
The courses designed to provide a candidate with the essential skills and competencies to operate effectively as an SBM.
School business manager responsibilities
The typical roles and functions of an SBM, and creating a job profile that suits your school.
How school business managers can be deployed
There are several different models of how an SBM can be deployed, depending on a school's size.

More information

Read about the experiences of school business managers and the headteachers and governors from schools that employ them. Our Discover the benefits of school business managers booklet (PDF, 840KB) has case studies covering primary, secondary and shared arrangements. Find and advertise school business manager positions at the National College's SBM jobs website.

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