We asked Jazz Ali to answer five questions about being a School Business Leader. Here’s what she said:
How did you become a School Business Manager/Leader?
I have worked in several schools within various finance departments, I took the opportunity to gain more knowledge and decided to go back to studying and did the SBM level 4 and level 5 courses.
What would be your one top tip for aspiring/new School Business Managers/Leaders?
When you are new to the role its good to have a mentor who can guide you and join the local school business manager network.
Stay organised, take some time to understand your priorities and workload schedule.
If you had an independent mentor and you asked for their support in one area of your role, what would you ask for?
I would like support in HR understanding statutory guidance.
Thinking about when you first started as a school leader, what one piece of advice would you give yourself knowing what you know now?
You are not alone! Other school leaders are going through the same learning curves.
Many school business managers/Leaders report feeling isolated, how do you think this could be addressed?
Be part of a support network is essential. The role is known to be a lonely role, because you are likely to be the only person doing that type of role so it gives a sense of being part of a wider team.
Build your network, from previous schools to online groups, you never know when you will need their guidance.
Jazz is a School Business Leader at South Grove Primary School in Walthamstow, London. You can connect with Jazz on Linked In
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