In this episode I’m joined by Jonny Coates, now a CFOO in a large MAT in Cumbria, to unpack what it really takes to evolve a business function in a growing trust. We explore how structures and line management shift over time, how to lead change without losing sight of school context and how to strengthen communication, collaboration and succession planning across business teams. Jonny also shares honest reflections on mistakes, balancing organisational need with individual strengths and what he’s learned along the way.

▶️ This episode at a glance:

[2:15] – Jonny shares how the business function in his trust has evolved since he took up post

[5:23] – How line management structures across the business function have developed over time

[7:33] – Leading change while staying grounded in individual school context

[10:10] – Creating better communication, collaboration and CPD across business teams

[15:04] – Jonny outlines his approach to succession planning within the business function

[19:11] – Balancing organisational need with individual strengths and personalities

[21:40] – Why mistakes are inevitable and how learning from them supports innovation

[26:42] – Jonny explains why he chose not to take the obvious route when reshaping teams

[30:08] – Supporting teams to balance school-level needs with central responsibilities

[33:04] – The role of the Regional Business Manager within the wider trust structure

[35:45] – How Jonny’s education business background shapes his perspective and influences board-level conversations

[38:11] – Jonny’s key do’s and don’ts for trusts looking to evolve their business function

[42:12] – Audience Q&A from the original live webinar recording

📚 Related content:

Contact Jonny via LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonnycoates/

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This podcast is hosted by me, Laura Williams, and sponsored by the amazing team at Schools Advisory Service who are the UK’s largest provider of staff absence insurance and comprehensive whole school wellbeing services.

⭐️ Laura's website: https://www.ljbusinessofeducation.co.uk

⭐️ Schools Advisory Service website: https://schooladvice.co.uk/