Assistant Business Manager

ROLE SUMMARY:

Founded in 1964, St. John’s International School is a private, non-profit educational institution. We are an IB continuum school committed to excellence in education through inquiry-based, child-centred teaching and learning. We are accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools (MSA).

Circa 500 students from 55 countries pursue a challenging academic curriculum that includes an emphasis on development in athletics and the arts, all within the context of the ethos and values that make St. John’s unique.

The highly educated, qualified and dedicated international teaching faculty makes the difference for the students at St. John’s. Among more than 15 nationalities represented, approximately quarter each hail from the UK, the US, Belgium and the rest of the world. More than 50% of the faculty holds advanced degrees.

English is the language of instruction throughout the school. French is taught in all grades from kindergarten at foreign language and native speaker levels. Spanish, German and Dutch are offered as world languages from Grade 8 onwards. A dual language programme in English and French is offered as an option from grades Pre-K through Grade 5. Self-taught mother tongue languages are also offered in Grades 9 to 12.

The school is situated in a pleasant residential part of French-speaking Waterloo, within easy walking distance of local shops and amenities. Waterloo and the surrounding area offer a great way of life whether you are joining solo or with your family. The centre of Brussels is easily reached by car or tram. This world city offers all of the cultural, economic and other attractions of a political capital. 

We offer an excellent package to members of staff, a comprehensive induction programme and a very warm welcome to St. John’s in what we trust will be a long and happy career with us!

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Reporting to the “School Business Manager”, the Assistant to the Business Manager will oversee the administration operations of the school, ensure regulatory compliance, and optimize resource use. This role will focus on maintaining internal controls while supporting the school's business and administrative activities. 

This position will be responsible for the following:

• Oversee all administrative tasks within the Business Office and assist with ancillary income invoicing, account payable coordination and planning, to align with the school's mission and goals.
• Support decision-making for projects, trips, transportation and catering.
• Coordinate bad debt management, including communication with the Shared Services Center (SSC) in the UK to enhance cash flow.
• Improve internal controls to safeguard the school’s assets under the guidance of the Business Manager and in collaboration with the SSC.
• Conduct risk assessments and implement strategies to mitigate risks related to trips, activities, and projects.
• Maintain communication with parents, staff, and other stakeholders.
• Coordinate activities with the SSC in the UK.
• Support the implementation, update, and improvement of processes and procedures, ensuring proper documentation.
• Oversee all insurance-related matters.
• Handle contract management for suppliers and contractors.

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE WILL HAVE:

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Business administration, or related field
• Proven experience in administration, preferably in a school or educational setting
• An excellent level of oral and written English and French.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Positive outlook on life and great sense of humor
• Proficiency in MS Office suite, especially Excel and familiar with accounting software.
• Excellent analytical skills with strong attention to details
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team.
• Understanding of confidentiality and discretion in handling sensitive information
• Solution-focused attitude and ability to solve problems.
• A desire to take ownership of aspects of the working environment and progress and develop.

SAFEGUARDING STATEMENT

Inspired Education Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, volunteers and other third parties to share this commitment. Safer recruitment practices and pre-employment background checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed.