Senior School Office Manager

A well-established and high-performing secondary school in the Chelmsford area is seeking an experienced and highly organised Senior School Office Manager to lead its front-office and administrative operations. This is a senior support role, central to the smooth day-to-day running of the school and the effective management of administrative systems and staff.

Working closely with the Headteacher, School Business Manager and senior leadership team, you will oversee all aspects of school office administration. This includes line-managing administrative staff, coordinating daily operations, and ensuring that systems relating to attendance, communication, admissions and general administration run efficiently and professionally.

You will act as a key point of contact for staff, families and external agencies, ensuring that the school office provides a calm, welcoming and well-organised service.

This is a large and well-respected secondary school with a reputation for professionalism, strong leadership and excellent organisation. The school benefits from stable staffing, clear structures and a culture where support staff are highly valued as part of the wider school community.

The working environment is fast-paced but structured, with clear expectations and strong leadership support.

• Managing the day-to-day operations of the school office
• Line-managing and supporting administrative staff
• Overseeing attendance, admissions and general administration processes
• Acting as a first point of contact for parents, visitors and external agencies
• Supporting senior leaders with operational planning and communication
• Ensuring compliance with school procedures and policies

The successful candidate will:

• Have significant experience in school administration, ideally in a leadership role
• Be highly organised, confident and professional
• Have strong people management and communication skills
• Be able to manage competing priorities in a busy environment
• Demonstrate discretion and sound judgement

• Senior, respected role within a well‑run school
• Opportunity to lead and shape administrative practice
• Supportive leadership and clear structures
• Stable working environment with strong team culture

This role is ideal for an experienced school administrator ready to take on a senior leadership position within a professional and supportive school environment.