Chief Operating Officer

PERIDOT PARTNERS; Cambridgeshire and Peterborough; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a prestigious Norman cathedral as Chief Operating Officer, leading operations and strategic initiatives. This pivotal role requires a values-driven leader with experience in financial sustainability and operational management, ensuring the Cathedral thrives in its mission and heritage.

Qualifications

• Strong track record in financial sustainability and operational management.
• Experience in leading complex organizations, ideally in faith-based or heritage settings.

Responsibilities

• Lead the implementation of the Cathedral's strategy and oversee day-to-day operations.
• Ensure effective governance and management of the Cathedral's practical business and mission.
• Deliver the Cathedral's strategic plan and maintain compliance with regulatory requirements.

Skills

Financial Sustainability

Operational Management

Strategic Leadership

Emotional Intelligence

Adaptability

Job description

Join the team of one of the finest Norman cathedrals in Europe. As Chief Operating Officer of Peterborough Cathedral, you will lead the implementation of Chapter's strategy, oversee day-to-day operations, and ensure the Cathedral thrives as a centre of ministry, mission, heritage and events.

About Peterborough Cathedral

Peterborough Cathedral stands as one of the finest Norman cathedrals in Europe and is the final resting place of Katharine of Aragon. Renowned for its magnificent architecture, exquisite medieval artwork and rich history, it is a site full of wonders to discover.

The Cathedral plays a central role in the life of the city of Peterborough, serving as both a 'sacred space and common ground'. Opening its doors to all, the Cathedral welcomes those who come for worship, a quiet moment of reflection, to admire the beauty of its ancient architecture, or to explore its rich history.

Beyond worship, the Cathedral is a hub of activity, where history, faith and community come together, creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all.

About the role

As Chief Operating Officer (COO), you will be a key member of the Cathedral's senior team. You will lead the lay staff, report to the Dean, and be accountable to the Chapter. You will have wide-ranging responsibilities for the cathedral's day-to-day operations and represent the Cathedral across the city.

You will lead the Cathedral's lay team in developing and implementing strategy and policy, ensuring effective governance and management of the Cathedral's practical business and mission.

This role is pivotal in delivering the Cathedral's strategic plan, securing its financial sustainability, and maintaining compliance with governance and regulatory requirements. It is central to delivering the sustainable financial model on which the cathedral's mission depends.

Who we are looking for

We are seeking an experienced, confident, and values-driven leader to join Peterborough Cathedral as Chief Operating Officer (COO). With a strong track record in financial sustainability, operational management, and strategic leadership, you will have overseen complex organisations-ideally within a faith-based, heritage, or non-profit setting. You will be adept at managing the Cathedral's unique blend of spiritual mission, heritage, and commercial activities, fostering collaboration, engaging stakeholders, and leading diverse teams with emotional intelligence and adaptability.

Your financial acumen and operational expertise will ensure effective budgeting, long-term sustainability, and delivery of diverse income streams aligned with the Cathedral's mission. A strategic thinker and empathetic leader, you will balance high-level vision with practical demands, navigating governance challenges, managing large-scale projects, and promoting a culture of trust, teamwork, and open communication. Resilient and adaptable, you will foster operational excellence while upholding the Cathedral's values, traditions, and the continued growth of its team.

Please click 'Apply on website' to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the job description and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Tuesday 3rd June 2025.