Chief Operating Officer

Job Description

Join the team leading the iconic Wells Cathedral as its next COO, developing its life as a place of worship, a heritage site of remarkable beauty and awe-inspiring historic significance, and a globally recognised destination for pilgrims, audiences and tourists alike.

Location: Wells Cathedral, onsite. Cathedral Offices, Wells, BA5 2UE

Salary: £85,000

Closing date: 9 a.m. Tuesday 30th April

Wells Cathedral deservedly has gained an enviable reputation for its lovingly maintained gothic architecture, world-class music, and its ministry. Underpinning the life, worship, and ministry of the Cathedral is a diverse organisation where a lot is achieved with modest resources.

As a member of the Cathedral Leadership Team and as the senior operational manager of Wells Cathedral, the COO is responsible for the delivery of the Chapter’s strategy and plans and for the day-to-day coordination of operations in the context of the ministry and mission of the Cathedral. Reporting to the Dean of Wells and accountable to the Chapter of Wells Cathedral, this is a full-time role which requires a presence onsite to carry out the duties effectively.

As a natural leader, the next COO should be authentic in their leadership and team-management skills, building trust quickly to lead the organisation in the context of some demanding priorities. Motivationally inspiring, wise in kindness, and with a values-led approach, the next COO should be experienced in people management and able to forge strong connections. They must be mindful of creating a healthy culture as well as delivering against the strategy. Open and transparent, the next COO needs to be a relationship builder engaging with the community beyond the Cathedral and building on existing partnerships.