Chief Operating Officer | Peterborough Cathedral

Peridot Partners; Peterborough; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a historic Norman cathedral as the Chief Operating Officer, leading operations and strategy to ensure financial sustainability and mission delivery. This role involves overseeing staff, governance, and commercial activities while fostering a collaborative environment.

Qualifications

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

Responsibilities

• Lead the implementation of projects to enhance the Cathedral’s income generation.
• Ensure good governance in accordance with applicable regulations.
• Direct and motivate the lay staff of the Cathedral.

Skills

Leadership

Financial Acumen

Emotional Intelligence

Strategic Thinking

Job description

Home / Roles / Chief Operating Officer | Peterborough Cathedral

Chief Operating Officer Peterborough Cathedral

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.

• Location: Peterborough

We seek a dynamic and versatile Chief Operating Officer to join the Cathedral leadership team and play a pivotal role in shaping its future. As the senior operational manager, you will play an integral part in the delivery of a financially sustainable future, leading the lay staff of this historic site, and supporting the ongoing mission of the Cathedral as a place of worship, a loving community, and a heritage site of awe-inspiring historic significance.

Who we are

Peterborough Cathedral is a place where history, faith and community come together, creating an inclusive and welcoming environment, staying true to its Benedictine values of hospitality and service. As an iconic landmark, embodying over 1,400 years of architectural splendour, it welcomes people to worship, and also to reflect and explore its remarkable heritage.

Peterborough Cathedral is the beating heart of the city and the seat of the Bishop of Peterborough. It is also a thriving, modern community where people from all backgrounds come together to worship. The Cathedral’s striking Norman architecture, with its towering West Front and magnificent vaulted ceilings, inspires awe and peace in equal measure. Yet, it’s the warmth and hospitality within that make it truly special.

Beyond worship, Peterborough Cathedral is a hub of activity, offering a wide range of educational programmes for schools, families, and lifelong learners.

Whether visitors are keen to delve into history, explore spirituality or attend one of many community events, there’s something for everyone. A team of committed staff and volunteers sits at the heart of Peterborough Cathedral, working with local organisations and charities across the city and Diocese, extending its mission of care and hospitality far beyond its walls.

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.

Key responsibilities include:

Strategic and operational leadership

• Work in partnership with the Executive and Chapter to formulate the future strategic direction and supporting tactical initiatives
• Work closely with the Dean, Chapter and the Executive to develop and implement operational excellence through the Cathedral’s Vision strategy
• Lead the implementation of projects to enhance the Cathedral’s income generation, and be responsible for cost management
• Principal responsibility for lay staff management, developing a modern and effective working environment, growing and developing staff, and adopting best employment practice
• Managing the Cathedral’s fundraising function
• Leading the Cathedral’s commercial activities

Team leadership

• Directing, developing and motivating the lay staff of the Cathedral
• Acting in a professional manner at all times, as a role model and ambassador for the cathedral.

Governance, risk and safeguarding

• Ensure good governance in accordance with the requirements of the Cathedrals Measure 2021, the relevant Charities Commission legislation and all other applicable regulations
• Lead, develop and utilise best practice policies, processes and tools to ensure the cathedral is well-controlled, yet flexible

Who we are looking for

We seek 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 experience overseeing complex organisations, ideally within a faith-based, heritage, or non-profit setting.

You will be able to manage the Cathedral’s unique blend of spiritual mission, heritage, and commercial activities. With strong emotional intelligence and adaptability, you will excel in fostering collaboration, engaging stakeholders and leading diverse teams.

Your financial acumen will ensure effective budgeting and long-term sustainability. With experience delivering diverse income streams and fundraising initiatives balanced against the needs of the cathedral’s central mission, your operational expertise will help you manage large-scale projects and optimise the performance of a diverse team.

As a strategic thinker, you will navigate governance challenges with agility and align teams around shared goals. At the same time, you will be an empathetic, inspiring, and empowering leader who promotes a culture of trust, open communication and teamwork.

Resilient and adaptable, you will balance high-level vision with the practical demands of Cathedral life, fostering operational excellence and leading your team with compassion. You will also ensure the team’s continued growth while upholding its values and traditions.

For further information about the role or to arrange a confidential discussion, please contact our advising consultants at Peridot Partners:

If you would like to know more about this role please contact David Hingley