Bereavement Services Manager — Modern, Digital & Sustainable

Worcester; Astwood; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Worcester City Council seeks an experienced Bereavement Manager to lead its new crematorium and modern bereavement service. The role combines operational leadership with digital transformation, including embedding PlotBox and managing two new electric cremators, ensuring high standards of care and compliance.

You will oversee cremations, burials, chapel and grounds, supervise staff, manage budgets, and develop service improvements while maintaining compassionate support for bereaved families.

Qualifications

• Proven management experience in crematorium/cemetery environments.
• Experience completing and overseeing statutory cremation and burial documentation.
• Experience reviewing emissions information and maintaining compliance with an environmental permit.
• Knowledge of health and safety requirements.

Responsibilities

• Lead the safe, efficient and compliant operation of the crematorium.
• Oversee cremator performance, filtration and abatement equipment, emissions information and environmental permit requirements.
• Plan daily capacity, staffing rotas and work schedules across cremations, burials, chapel services and cemetery operations.
• Maintain accurate statutory registers, cremation records and deeds of exclusive rights of burial.
• Lead, motivate and develop operational, professional and seasonal staff.
• Provide technical guidance, structured training and mentoring across the service.
• Manage cemetery and crematorium health and safety, including risk assessments, safe systems of work and memorial safety.
• Lead the grounds team and maintain high standards across Astwood and St John’s.
• Manage budgets, procurement, equipment and other operational resources.
• Review performance information and identify opportunities for service improvement and income generation.
• Act as senior escalation point for complex enquiries and complaints, ensuring compassionate support for bereaved families.
• Deputise for Bereavement and Greenspaces Services Manager when required.

Skills

Management experience

Cremator operations

Budgeting & procurement

Staff development

Health & safety

Environmental permits

Customer care

Driving licence

Organisational skills

Empathy

Education

ICCM Diploma

Job description

Worcester City Council seeks an experienced Bereavement Manager to lead its new crematorium and modern bereavement service. The role combines operational leadership with digital transformation, including embedding PlotBox and managing two new electric cremators, ensuring high standards of care and compliance.

You will oversee cremations, burials, chapel and grounds, supervise staff, manage budgets, and develop service improvements while maintaining compassionate support for bereaved families.