At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead high-quality burial services and oversee cemetery operations in a vibrant London borough.
- Company: Join Brent Council, a diverse and dynamic local authority committed to community transformation.
- Benefits: Enjoy up to 33 days annual leave, excellent pension, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Flexible working arrangements and supportive family-friendly policies available.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact during sensitive times while leading innovative service improvements.
- Qualifications: Significant experience in cemetery operations and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 66378 - 69984 £ per year.
Salary range: £66,378 - £69,984 p.a. incl. London weighting (plus fantastic benefits!)
Contract: Fixed - Term - 8 months with the possibility to extend to 12 Month Maternity Cover
Hours of work: 36 hours per week
Location: Civic Centre and other locations from time to time
An excellent opportunity for an experienced and motivated Cemeteries Manager to lead the delivery of high-quality burial services across a diverse London borough. Reporting to the Head of Registration and Bereavement Services, you will be responsible for overseeing day-to-day cemetery operations, ensuring compliance with relevant legislation, and maintaining high standards of grounds maintenance, health and safety, and customer care. The role requires strong operational leadership, sound professional judgement, and a commitment to delivering sensitive, responsive services to residents at difficult times.
This post is offered as an 8-month fixed-term maternity cover with the possibility of extension, and we are seeking a candidate who can start as soon as possible. We welcome applications from individuals with significant experience in cemetery operations and grounds maintenance within a local authority or similar setting. Flexible working arrangements can be discussed.
The Person:
- Evidence of significant relevant Continuing Professional Development (CPD).
- An expert knowledge of the law, rules and regulations relating to burials, cemeteries operations and memorial safety.
- Knowledge of best practice in HR and financial management.
- In depth knowledge of procurement rules including EU requirements within a local authority setting.
- Knowledge of businesses planning and operating in a commercial environment.
- Experience of leading innovation and change including service transformation through system change, promoting change in individual and community behaviour, and use of evidence e.g. through research and consultation, to guide service development.
- Delivering customer focused services and service improvements managing demands and pressures on the service and tight deadlines.
- A detailed understanding of the different cultural and religious requirements related to burial, cremations and memorial arrangements.
- Experience of working using Microsoft office suite of IT packages including spreadsheets and Cemeteries software systems.
- Experience of managing remote teams, external contractors and agencies and an understanding of the relevant roles and responsibilities.
- Knowledge and experience of financial forecasting, capital and revenue budget management and financial planning.
Why join us?
We know people achieve their best when they feel valued. At Brent, you’ll benefit from:
- Up to 33 days annual leave (depending on length of service) plus bank holidays.
- Excellent pension with generous employer contributions (LGPS).
- Hybrid and flexible working options available for most roles.
- Supportive family-friendly policies for parents, guardians, and carers.
- Health and wellbeing support, including access to eye test support and a 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme.
- Financial support such as education sessions, childcare deposit loans, and season ticket loans.
- Travel perks including affordable parking nearby, a Cycle to Work scheme, and great onsite facilities.
- Learning and development opportunities to help you grow your career.
- Access to My Brent Rewards with exclusive discounts on shopping, travel, leisure, and entertainment.
Closing date: Sunday 21 June 2026 (23:59)
If you are interested in applying for this job, please start by clicking the "Apply Now" button below. You must provide a supporting statement as part of your application that clearly shows how you meet the essential requirements on the Job description. We will accept a CV in support of your application, however, you should still provide a supporting statement.
Brent Council values the diversity of its community and aims to have a workforce that reflects this and therefore encourages applications from all sections of the community. We positively encourage all applicants to self-identify their characteristics in the diversity survey section in the application.
We are committed to safer recruitment and safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Applicants should be aware that posts working with children, young people and vulnerable adults are subject to an Enhanced DBS check as well as other employment clearances.
Brent has a positive approach to flexible working.
As a disability confident employer, Brent welcomes applications from people with all disabilities, including “non-visible” disabilities and mental health conditions. We will interview any disabled applicant who meets the essential criteria. If you require reasonable adjustments to be made to any part of the recruitment process due to your disability, please contact us on recruitment@brent.gov.uk.
Cemeteries Manager employer: Borough of Brent
The Borough of Brent is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment where employees can thrive in their political careers. With a strong emphasis on flexibility and work-life balance, the role of Policy & Communications Assistant provides generous annual leave and opportunities for professional growth within a supportive team dedicated to making a positive impact in the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Cemeteries Manager
✨Get Engaged in Local Politics
Dive into your local council meetings or community boards. These spaces are packed with people who are already in the public sector and might have insider tips on upcoming temporary roles. Plus, you can connect directly with key decision-makers.
✨Stay Alert for Seasonal Recruitment
Many public sector jobs ramp up during certain times of the year, especially around election seasons or local budget planning periods. Keep your eyes peeled for recruitment drives during these windows, as they're prime times for temporary positions.
✨Leverage Online Job Portals
Don’t forget to check government job boards or websites like the local council's site for temporary postings. This is where many roles first get advertised, and applying directly here can speed things up.
✨Tap Into Your University Resources
If you're at university, make the most of your career services to discover opportunities in the public sector. They often have connections with local government employers who are looking for temporary staff and can help you polish your approach.
We think you need these skills to ace Cemeteries Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Emphasise your understanding of public policy:In your application, make sure to highlight any knowledge or experience you have related to public policy, governance or community engagement. Show us how you can contribute to the public sector’s mission, especially if you've worked on relevant projects or initiatives before!
Tailor your CV to the sector's expectations:When crafting your CV, focus on including experiences that showcase your ability to work within government structures or similar environments. Use clear, concise language and consider adding any volunteer work or internships that reflect your commitment to public service.
Show flexibility and willingness to learn:Since this is a temporary role, it’s crucial to convey your adaptability and eagerness to pick up new skills quickly. In your cover letter, let us know how you plan to make the most of this short-term experience and what you hope to learn from it.
Include relevant certificates and training:If you've completed any training or have certifications that are relevant to the role (like public administration, project management, or data analysis), don't forget to mention them. These can really make you stand out in the application process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Borough of Brent
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Public Service
In the government and public sector, showing that you're genuinely passionate about serving the community is key. Get ready to share examples where you've contributed to social good or tackled community issues, as this will resonate with interviewers from Borough of Brent.
✨Prepare for Policy and Regulatory Questions
Expect questions about policies, regulations, or recently implemented government initiatives. Brush up on the latest news relating to public sector developments—being informed will help you demonstrate that you're ready to hit the ground running, especially in a temporary role.
✨Flexibility is Your Best Friend
Since this is a temporary role, emphasise your ability to adapt quickly. Share examples where you've successfully taken on new challenges or adjusted to different team dynamics, that'll show Borough of Brent that you’re reliable and can effectively support various projects without a long onboarding process.
✨Prepare to Showcase Teamwork Skills
In the public sector, collaboration is vital. Be ready to discuss past experiences working in teams, especially in diverse environments. Highlight how you've contributed positively to group settings—this could really set you apart from other candidates in this temporary role.
