Chief Operating Officer

Chief Operating Officer

St Edmundsbury Cathedral
Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk

About Us

St Edmundsbury Cathedral is a place of worship, heritage, learning and community at the heart of Bury St Edmunds. Welcoming thousands of visitors each year, the Cathedral delivers services, educational programmes, events and community activities while caring for a significant historic site.

Guided by our values of Faith, Welcome, Compassion and Confidence, we aim to be an inclusive and welcoming place for all.

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and strategic leader to join us as Chief Operating Officer.

As the Cathedral's principal lay officer, you will lead the operational, administrative and commercial functions of the Cathedral, ensuring effective governance, compliance, financial sustainability and high-quality day-to-day operations. Working closely with the Dean, Chapter (Trustees) and Senior Leadership Team, you will help shape and deliver the Cathedral's strategic vision while leading a diverse team across functions including finance, safeguarding, HR, facilities, volunteers, visitor experience, marketing and commercial operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the Cathedral's operational strategy and organisational development.
• Ensure effective governance, compliance and risk management.
• Support financial sustainability and long-term planning.
• Lead and develop staff and volunteer teams.
• Oversee safeguarding, health and safety, IT and property management.
• Drive operational improvement, project delivery and income generation.
• Build strong relationships with trustees, partners and stakeholders.

About You

Essential

• Senior leadership experience within a complex organisation.
• Experience working with boards, trustees or governance bodies.
• Strong operational, financial and people management skills.
• Experience leading organisational change and improvement.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Understanding of safeguarding and regulatory compliance.

Desirable

• Previous experience as a COO or equivalent senior leader.
• Experience in the charity, heritage, faith or visitor attraction sectors.
• Understanding of charity governance.
• Experience managing volunteers.
• Knowledge of Church of England structures and processes.

St Edmundsbury Cathedral is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. An enhanced DBS check will be required for the successful candidate.