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- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and ensure the Cathedral's financial health and sustainability.
- Company: Chichester Cathedral, a historic and vibrant community hub.
- Benefits: Flexible working, generous leave, pension contributions, and free parking.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a unique heritage setting while leading financial initiatives.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with senior experience in finance, ideally in charity or heritage.
- Other info: Join a team that welcomes over 350,000 visitors annually and supports community engagement.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
This role provides strategic financial leadership and a pivotal senior leadership position with responsibility for the overall financial health, sustainability and strategic direction of Chichester Cathedral.
Location: Chichester/Hybrid
Hours: Part-time (21 hours per week)
Salary: £60,000 pro rata
Contract: Permanent
Benefits: Pension contribution, pro rata of 34 days’ leave including bank holidays, Employee Assistance Programme, free onsite parking, flexible working opportunities
Closing Date: Monday 2 February 2026
Interviews: First interviews will take place in person in Chichester on Tuesday 10 February
The Role
This is a pivotal senior leadership role with responsibility for the overall financial health, sustainability and strategic direction of the Cathedral. Working closely with the Chief Operating Officer, Chapter and senior colleagues, you will provide robust financial leadership while supporting income generation, investment planning and effective use of resources across a complex charity operation.
Key responsibilities
- Leading financial strategy, planning, budgeting, forecasting and reporting across all Cathedral entities
- Overseeing monthly management accounts, statutory reporting and audit processes
- Managing financial risk, cash flow forecasting and investment of liquid funds
- Supporting and advising trustees and committees with clear financial analysis
- Identifying and developing new income streams including commercial activity, grants and fundraising
- Providing financial oversight for new projects and strategic initiatives
- Ensuring compliance with Charity Commission and Church of England financial requirements
- Managing and developing the finance team
- Overseeing IT strategy and third party service providers to ensure value for money
About You
You will be a qualified accountant with senior level experience and the confidence to operate both strategically and hands on within a values led organisation.
Qualifications
- Recognised accounting qualification such as ACA, ACCA, CIMA or CIPFA
- Recent senior financial leadership experience, ideally within a charity or heritage setting
- Strong commercial awareness and experience of income generation
- Proven expertise in budgeting, forecasting and financial planning
- Experience of financial risk management and investment decision making
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to influence a wide range of stakeholders
- A collaborative leadership style with strong people management skills
- The ability to manage competing priorities and multiple projects effectively
- Experience of Xero or the ability to learn new systems quickly
You do not need to be a member of the Church of England but should be in sympathy with the organisation’s mission and values.
About The Organisation
The Cathedral is a living, working place of worship that has been at the centre of life in Chichester for over nine centuries. It is the Mother Church of the Diocese, covering East and West Sussex, and also a visitor attraction, a venue for music and the arts and an all‑round hub for the community welcoming over 350,000 visitors each year. Staff do not have to be Christian, but you should understand the Christian mission.
Chief Finance Officer in England employer: Chichester Cathedral
Contact Detail:
Chichester Cathedral Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Finance Officer in England
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the finance sector! Attend industry events, join relevant online groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential colleagues or mentors. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Ace the Interview
When you land that interview, prepare to showcase your strategic thinking and financial expertise. Brush up on your knowledge of the Cathedral's mission and values, and think about how your experience aligns with their needs. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their financial health and sustainability.
✨Follow Up
After your interview, don’t forget to send a thank-you email! It’s a great way to express your appreciation and reiterate your interest in the role. Plus, it keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Make sure to apply through our website for the best chance at landing the job. We streamline the process and ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team!
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Finance Officer in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your financial leadership experience and qualifications. We want to see how your skills align with the strategic direction of Chichester Cathedral, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about the role and how your values align with those of the Cathedral. We love seeing genuine enthusiasm, so let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Financial Acumen: In your application, be sure to highlight your expertise in budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning. We’re looking for someone who can manage financial risks and identify new income streams, so give us examples of how you've done this in the past.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it’s super easy – just follow the prompts and you’ll be set!
How to prepare for a job interview at Chichester Cathedral
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Chief Finance Officer, you’ll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics relevant to Chichester Cathedral, such as budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed these areas in previous roles.
✨Understand the Mission
Familiarise yourself with the mission and values of Chichester Cathedral. Show that you’re not just about numbers; you understand the importance of the Cathedral in the community. This will help you connect with the interviewers and show that you’re aligned with their goals.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills. Think of examples where you’ve identified new income streams or managed financial risks. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses clearly.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Highlight your experience in collaborating with various stakeholders. Prepare to discuss how you’ve influenced decisions and communicated complex financial information to non-financial colleagues. This is crucial for a role that involves advising trustees and committees.
