Business Manager - Island School

Job Description

Island School is seeking an exceptional Business Manager to join our Senior Leadership Team and lead the operational, financial, and administrative management of our dynamic school community. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the strategic direction of one of Hong Kong’s most innovative and well-established international secondary schools.

As Business Manager, you will oversee all aspects of non-academic operations - from finance and facilities to compliance and people management - ensuring that Island School operates smoothly, sustainably, and in alignment with its values and vision. You will work closely with the Principal, ESF Centre, and key stakeholders to support the school’s mission of providing a holistic, future-focused education for every student.

About Island School

Island School is a vibrant, co-educational international school with approximately 1350 students aged 11 to 18. We offer a broad and challenging curriculum that includes our own competency led courses alongside the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP), IGCSE pathways, IB Diploma Programme (DP) and IB Career-related Programme (CP). As a member of the English Schools Foundation (ESF), we are now fully resettled in our stunning, purpose-built campus in Mid-Levels, with state-of-the-art facilities that include a performance space, world-class sports centre, design and maker spaces, and flexible learning environments that reflect our commitment to excellence and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the school’s financial management, including strategic planning, budgeting, procurement, asset management, and financial reporting.
• Oversee day-to-day operations, administration, and facilities management, ensuring a safe, efficient, and sustainable learning environment.
• Ensure compliance with ESF policies, Hong Kong legislation, and school accreditation requirements.
• Lead and manage support staff functions, including performance, professional development, and organisational structure.
• Act as a key advisor to the Principal and School Council on all non-academic matters.
• Liaise with the ESF Centre, service providers, and external stakeholders to ensure smooth operations and effective partnerships.
• Contribute to and, where appropriate, lead strategic committees such as Health & Safety or Finance.
• Support the development of community partnerships and income generation through lettings, sponsorship, or other initiatives.
• Promote the school’s values and mission by fostering a positive, professional culture that supports teaching, learning, and staff and student wellbeing.

Requirements

• Degree in Business Management, Accounting or related field (postgraduate qualification preferred).
• 10–15 years of senior experience in organisational/financial management.
• Strong leadership, strategic thinking, and people management skills.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving abilities.
• Financial acumen and operational oversight across diverse functions.
• Experience in education, non-profit or service sectors is desirable.

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a leading educational organisation with a commitment to excellence and equity.
• Work in a supportive and collaborative community that values innovation and wellbeing.
• Play a key leadership role in shaping the future of one of Hong Kong’s flagship international schools.
• Join a school where our strength lies in our community: Once an Islander, always an Islander.

Applicants must be permanent Hong Kong residents or possess a valid visa to work in Hong Kong.

To Apply

Please click here to view the full job description and submit your application via the ESF Careers page.

For further information about Island School, please visit our website.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and offers may be extended prior to the job closing date.

By applying for this position, your application may be considered for other opportunities (senior-level roles, head of department, etc.) within ESF.

ESF is an Equal Opportunities Employer

The English Schools Foundation (ESF) is fully committed to providing equal employment opportunities. ESF will not discriminate on the basis of age, race, colour, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, national origin, religion, veteran status, physical or mental disability, genetic information, creed, citizenship or any other status protected by local laws or regulations.

Personal data provided by job applicants will be used strictly in accordance with the ESF's Personal Data Policy, a copy of which will be provided upon request.

ESF is dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of all students in our care and expects all applicants to uphold this commitment. We adhere to rigorous recruitment practices, with all appointments contingent upon an interview, identity verification, criminal background checks (including ICPC, SCRC, and other international background checks as appropriate), assessment of social media presence, and positive references.

In accordance with the Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) 2025 guidelines, ESF may perform online checks for all shortlisted candidates prior to the interview.

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