Recognising Excellence in School Business Leadership: Celebrating NSBL of the Year 2025, Emma Searl

Recognising Excellence in School Business Leadership: Celebrating NSBL of the Year 2025, Emma Searl 

As School Business Services’ National School Business Leaders Day approaches on 5th June 2026, it’s a valuable opportunity to recognise the individuals helping schools thrive behind the scenes. Often unseen but always essential, School Business Leaders play a critical role in shaping the success and sustainability of education. Now in its fifth year, the celebration continues to shine a spotlight on the vital contribution these professionals make across the UK’s education sector. 

Following in the footsteps of last year’s winner, we spoke to Emma Searl, National School Business Leader of the Year 2025, about her journey into the profession, the impact of the role today, and why recognition matters more than ever.

Watch the full interview

A Career Built on Purpose and Progression 

Emma’s journey into school business leadership began over 13 years ago as an Administrative Assistant. From those early days, she could already see the broader impact of the role. 

“I could see all the work happening behind the scenes, finance, premises, compliance and the direct impact it had on staff, pupils and parents. I wanted to be a bigger part of that.” 

Through dedication and professional development, Emma progressed into increasingly senior roles, completing qualifications and expanding her responsibilities. Today, she operates at executive level across multiple schools, overseeing finance, operations and strategy. 

Emma shares what has kept her in the role: 

“It’s the variety, the challenge, and the sense of impact. No two days are the same, and I enjoy solving problems and improving systems so leaders can focus on education.” 

The Strategic Impact of SBLs 

Emma is clear that the role of School Business Leaders has never been more important. 

“Schools are highly complex organisations now. SBLs are pivotal in ensuring they run effectively and sustainably.” 

From managing budgets and compliance to overseeing estates, HR and technology, SBLs enable schools to function efficiently. This, in turn, allows teachers and senior leaders to focus on delivering the best outcomes for pupils. 

“We’re not just operational. We’re strategic partners contributing directly to school improvement and long-term sustainability.” 

An Evolving Role Under Pressure 

Over the past decade, Emma has seen the role transform significantly. Increasing financial pressures, rising costs and workforce challenges have all contributed to a more complex and demanding landscape. 

“The role now requires a broader skill set than ever before. Funding uncertainty, recruitment challenges, SEND pressures - all of it impacts schools, and we must respond strategically.” 

SBLs are also navigating rapid technological change, expanding estates responsibilities and a growing need for income generation. Despite these pressures, the profession continues to adapt and innovate. 

Recognition That Resonates 

Winning SBL of the Year in 2025 was a deeply meaningful moment for Emma, both professionally and personally. 

“It felt surreal to win National School Business Leader of the year. The recognition reminded me how valued I was at a time when I really needed that.” 

Emma received the award during an exceptionally challenging period in her life, having been diagnosed with breast cancer in 2024. Throughout treatment, she continued to work where possible, finding purpose and structure in her role. 

“Work gave me focus and helped me through a time of uncertainty. Receiving the award gave me renewed motivation.”

Professionally, the recognition elevated not only Emma’s voice, but the visibility of the SBL role more widely.  

Looking Ahead: The Future of the Profession 

Emma believes that while the role has evolved, there is still more to be done to ensure SBLs are consistently recognised as senior leaders across the sector. 

Key priorities for the future include: 

• Greater national recognition of the role 

• Clearer career pathways and development opportunities 

• Increased representation at policy level 

• Stronger professional networks 

“There needs to be a stronger investment in SBL development, just as we do for other roles within schools.”  

Advice for Future SBLs 

For those considering a career as an SBL, Emma’s advice is both practical and reassuring: 

• Embrace the variety and fast pace of the role 

• Build strong relationships early 

• Don’t be afraid to ask for support 

• Prioritise your wellbeing 

“It’s a challenging profession, but incredibly rewarding. Just remember that you don’t have to do it alone.” 

Why Recognition Matters 

 Awards like National School Business Leader of the Year and initiatives like National School Business Leaders Day play an essential role in celebrating the profession. 

“Recognition helps challenge outdated perceptions and shows the impact we have. It celebrates the resilience, dedication and expertise across the sector.”  

With over 250 nominations received this year, it’s clear that awareness and appreciation of the SBL role is growing. 

Join the Celebration on 5th June 

National School Business Leaders Day is a chance to say thank you and to recognise the individuals who keep schools running, improving and adapting every day. We've created a FREE Celebration Pack designed to help you say thank you in a meaningful way!

Download the Celebration Pack

Whether you’re an SBL, part of a school team, or simply want to show your support, take the time on 5th June to celebrate the profession and the difference it makes. 

You can do this by:  

• Hosting a staffroom celebration or team breakfast 

• Create a “thank you wall” where colleagues can leave messages of appreciation 

• Share stories and shout-outs on social media using #NationalSBLDay26 
• Present your SBL with a certificate or small token of appreciation 

Because behind every successful school is a strong, strategic School Business Leader.