Lead the business, governance and operations of a growing independent school.
This is a rare opportunity for an experienced Business Manager to play a pivotal leadership role in a values‐driven, growing independent school. As Business Manager at the Central West Leadership Academy, you will be a trusted partner to the Principal and Board, with real influence over the financial health, operational effectiveness, governance strength, and cultural foundations of the Academy.
You will lead the business, governance, and operational engine of the school—bringing clarity, structure, and strategic insight to a complex and rewarding environment. From financial stewardship and board reporting to people leadership, compliance, and facilities oversight, your work will directly enable outstanding teaching and learning.
This role is ideal for a commercially astute professional who enjoys building strong systems, leading capable teams, and working closely with senior leaders, while remaining connected to a close‐knit school community. You will be empowered to improve processes, shape a positive service culture, and help guide a school that blends the NSW Curriculum with the International Baccalaureate framework.
About the Role
Reporting to the Principal and Board, the Business Manager is responsible for the financial, administrative, governance and operational backbone of the School.
* Lead the School's financial management and reporting
* Support the Board through disciplined governance and compliance processes
* Lead and develop the administrative team
* Shape a positive service culture for parents, carers, staff and suppliers
* Oversee facilities, property matters and contractor relationships
This role will suit someone who values clarity, accountability and purpose, and who enjoys working in a close‐knit school community.
Key Responsibilities
* Contribution to and implementation of the Academy's strategic and annual business plans
* Financial management, budgeting, forecasting and reporting
* Board and governance support, including attending meetings
* Leadership of finance and administration staff
* Payroll, HR and compliance oversight
* Property maintenance, landlord liaison and contractor management
* Building strong relationships with parents, staff and suppliers
About You
* Qualifications in accounting, finance or business (CPA/CA desirable)
* Senior experience in financial or operational leadership
* Confidence working with Boards and senior leaders
* Strong people leadership and communication skills
* A proven commitment to achieving the agreed strategic and management objectives
* A practical, solutions‐focused mindset
* Experience in education, not‐for‐profit or regulated environments will be well regarded
Child Safety Commitment
The Central West Leadership Academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. As the Business Manager, you will be required to hold a valid Working With Children Check and ensure a child‐safe culture is embedded in every aspect of the Academy's operations.
Why Join Us
* Senior leadership role with genuine influence
* Supportive Board and Principal
* Opportunity to build systems and shape culture
* Attractive regional lifestyle and community connection
Salary range: A competitive salary commensurate with experience and reflective of the responsibilities of the position will be offered.
Life in Dubbo – A Regional Hub with City Advantages
Located in the heart of regional NSW, Dubbo offers the perfect balance of career opportunity and lifestyle. A thriving regional city of over 56,000 residents and a key hub for education, healthcare, culture, and commerce. Affordable housing, shorter commutes, and a vibrant, family‐friendly lifestyle. Home to Taronga Western Plains Zoo, a growing arts and culture precinct, and excellent dining and entertainment options. Daily flights to Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane make Dubbo highly connected despite its regional charm. This is an exciting opportunity for those looking to combine professional leadership with an exceptional quality of life.
How to Apply
Please submit your CV and a brief cover letter addressing the selection criteria and outlining your suitability for the role to: Salary match Number of applicants Skills match.
Your application will include the following questions:
* Which of the following statements best describes your right to work in Australia?
* How many years' experience do you have as a business manager?
* Have you completed a certified practising accountant (CPA) qualification?
* How many years' experience do you have in the financial services industry?
* Do you have experience working towards targets and KPIs?
* Do you have a current Working With Children (WWC) Check?
* How many years of business management experience do you have?
* Have you worked in a role where you were responsible for budget management & forecasting?
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