The Littlehampton Academy is looking to appoint an experienced and highly organised Finance Business Partner & Head of Operations to join our well-established and supportive Senior Leadership Team.
This is a key role focused on leading and coordinating the Academy’s business operations, including finance, premises, health and safety, catering, administration, IT, marketing, and compliance. You will play a vital part in ensuring that all non-teaching functions run smoothly, efficiently, and in line with the Academy’s strategic goals.
The role requires strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage a wide range of responsibilities with professionalism and discretion. A background in financial and operational management, along with a commitment to supporting the educational environment, is essential.
This position is 37 hours per week (0800-1600 Monday-Thursday, 0800-1530 Friday) and 52 weeks with 28 days holiday rising to 33 days holiday after 5 years service.
The initial rate of pay is £65,302 to £70,260 per annum ( Central Pay Range 33-38) depending on experience .
Closing Date: midday Friday 8 August 2025. We reserve the right to close the vacancy before the closing date so please apply early.
Safer Recruitment Declaration
Schools are now required, as part of their shortlisting process, to carry out an online search as part of their due diligence. If shortlisted for the role, an appropriate online search will be undertaken on your name(s). Any information highlighted will be treated as confidential and will only be used in relation to the post for which you have applied.
The successful applicant will be required to undergo full safeguarding and vetting checks, including references, and an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check, and will be subject to a period of probation.
Job Details
Salary: £65,302 - £70,260 pa
Contract Type: Permanent
Working Pattern: 37 hours, 52 weeks
Location: Littlehampton
Interviews: TBC
What You Need to Succeed
To be successful in this role you will need to:
- Lead and manage the Academy’s financial operations, including budget planning, monthly reporting, and ensuring compliance with statutory and Trust-wide financial requirements.
- Act as the Academy’s Finance Business Partner, providing professional financial guidance to the Principal, SLT, and Academy Councillors.
- Oversee core operational functions including estates, health and safety, IT, administration, catering, and facilities management to ensure smooth daily running of the Academy.
- Support strategic planning and business development, contributing to the Academy Improvement Plan and developing sustainable long-term financial and operational strategies.
- Manage and develop support staff teams, ensuring high-quality performance, effective deployment, and opportunities for professional development.
- Ensure compliance with all statutory requirements, including data protection, health and safety, food hygiene, and emergency procedures.
- Lead the delivery of capital and premises projects, from planning through to completion, ensuring value for money and minimal disruption to Academy life.
- Drive income generation initiatives, including grant applications, lettings, and external funding bids to support financial sustainability.
- Act as Educational Visits Coordinator, ensuring all trips are planned, risk-assessed, and managed in line with policy and financial regulations.
- Promote and enhance the Academy’s reputation, supporting communications, marketing, admissions, and community partnerships.
Further Information
The Littlehampton Academy and West Sussex County Council are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment. All successful candidates will be subject to an appropriate Disclosure and Barring Service check along with other relevant employment checks, including satisfactory references.
How to Apply
To apply, please visit our website via this link: https://www.eteach.com/careers/littlehamptonacademy/
NOTE TO CANDIDATES - Please do not select the ‘Apply online’ button as the School processes your applications directly rather than through this site.
The reference number for this role is SCHO00808.
Job Reference: SCHO00808