At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial planning and commercial development for a mission-driven church.
- Company: Fountains Church, a growing community-focused organisation in Bradford.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible part-time hours, and a supportive leadership environment.
- Other info: Opportunity to shape the future of a thriving Resourcing Church.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by combining business skills with community transformation.
- Qualifications: Commercial leadership experience and strong relational skills.
The predicted salary is between 14286 - 38571 £ per year.
- Please do not apply for this role via Pathways, please see further information below
- Business and Operations Director
- Salary:£32,142.86 - £38,571.43 (FTE £50,000–£60,000) per annum, dependent on experience
- About Fountains Church
We are seeking a dynamic and commercially minded leader to join Fountains Church in Bradford as our Business and Operations Director.
This is a pivotal role for a growing, mission‑driven church committed to serving its community, developing sustainable income streams, and stewarding its resources with excellence.
As a Resourcing Church, we are called to revitalise mission, grow new disciples, and support churches across the city.
To do this well, we need strong commercial leadership that ensures our vision is fully resourced and our assets are used creatively and effectively.
After extensive renovation work, we have an exceptional multi-room event and conferencing venue.
With four modern, welcoming spaces, state of the art AV equipment and a first-class catering team we are a truly versatile event and conference facility in the heart of the city.
The Opportunity
This is a unique opportunity to combine commercial expertise with meaningful social and community impact.
You will lead on commercial development, financial planning, and strategic growth—maximising the use of our buildings, developing new revenue streams, and building partnerships across Bradford.
Working closely with the trustees, church leader and clergy team, you will help shape strategies that strengthen the intersection between mission and commercial activity, ensuring long‑term sustainability.
This role is ideal for someone who is entrepreneurial, relational, and excited by the challenge of building something that genuinely transforms a community.
Key Responsibilities
- Financial Leadership
- Lead budgeting, forecasting and financial planning processes.
- Produce regular financial reports and management information for senior leaders and trustees.
- Provide strategic financial advice to support decision-making and long-term sustainability.
- Support the preparation of annual accounts.
- Ensure robust financial controls, compliance and risk management.
- Commercial Development and Income Generation
- Identify and develop new income-generating opportunities.
- Maximise the commercial potential of the church building and facilities.
- Lead grant research, applications and reporting.
- Develop fundraising initiatives and donor engagement strategies.
- Analyse commercial performance data and recommend improvements.
- Strategic Partnerships
- Build relationships with local businesses, community organisations, civic leaders and diocesan partners.
- Represent the church within relevant networks across Bradford.
- Develop partnerships that support both commercial objectives and community impact.
- Identify emerging opportunities that strengthen the church's sustainability and influence.
- Strategy and Organisational Development
- Work with church leadership to ensure the church's vision is appropriately resourced.
- Help shape and deliver strategies that align mission, operations and commercial activity.
- Advise on organisational capacity, risk management and future planning.
- Support leadership teams in strategic planning and resource development.
- Marketing and Communications
- Develop marketing strategies to promote commercial opportunities and venue hire.
- Oversee website content, email communications and digital marketing activity.
- Ensure consistent branding and messaging across all channels.
- Monitor marketing effectiveness and adapt campaigns accordingly.
- Operational Leadership
- Oversee systems, processes and reporting related to commercial and church activities.
- Ensure compliance with organisational policies and statutory requirements.
- Contribute to a positive, professional and mission-focused culture.
- Be a key role in the senior leadership team.
- Team Leadership
- Provide line management to relevant staff and volunteers.
- Support recruitment, development and performance management where required.
- Foster a culture of excellence, collaboration and hospitality.
- Ensure staff policies and procedures are implemented effectively.
What We're Looking For
We are seeking a commercially minded leader who is excited by the opportunity to use their skills to support the mission and ministry of the Church.
You will be strategic, proactive and highly relational, with the ability to turn ideas into sustainable outcomes.
Why Join Us?
- A genuinely meaningful role that combines business leadership with community transformation.
- Opportunity to shape the future sustainability and growth of a thriving Resourcing Church.
- Flexible, part-time working arrangement.
- Collaborative and supportive leadership environment.
- Opportunity to make a lasting impact across Bradford and beyond.
- Safeguarding
Fountains Church is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults.
The successful applicant will be expected to comply with all safeguarding policies and procedures and may be required to undertake an Enhanced DBS check.
Deadline for applications
- Sunday 6 September 2026
- Interview Date
- Wednesday 16th September at Fountains Church, Glydegate Square, Bradford, BD5 0BQ
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
Business and Operations Director - Fountains Church in Bradford employer: Church of England
Walker Christ Church offers a unique opportunity for a full-time Vicar to engage deeply with a compassionate congregation dedicated to community service and spiritual growth. Located in the vibrant area of Walker, this role provides a supportive environment with experienced colleagues across multiple parishes, fostering collaboration and innovation in mission work. The church prioritises personal development and encourages initiatives that connect with diverse local communities, making it an excellent place for those seeking meaningful and impactful employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Business and Operations Director - Fountains Church in Bradford
✨Tap into Leadership Networks
Join industry-specific groups on platforms like LinkedIn or attend local management meetups. Networking with fellow leaders can open doors to part-time roles and help you get a feel for the corporate culture at companies like Church of England.
✨Leverage Your Existing Connections
Don’t hesitate to ask your professional contacts if they know of any part-time leadership positions. Sometimes it's all about who you know, and your connections might have the inside scoop on opportunities that aren't publicly advertised.
✨Spotlight Your Leadership Skills
When you show up to interviews or networking events, make sure to highlight your leadership experience and successes. Tailor your discussion points to how you can bring value to Church of England in a part-time capacity, focusing on your ability to drive team performance.
✨Consider Consulting for Flexibility
If you're keen on part-time leadership roles, think about contracting or consulting. It can provide you with a broader range of experiences and allows you to build a diverse portfolio of projects, showcasing your leadership across different challenges.
We think you need these skills to ace Business and Operations Director - Fountains Church in Bradford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Leadership Style:Incorporate examples from your experiences that highlight your leadership style and effectiveness. We want to see how you've managed teams or contributed to strategic initiatives, even if it was in a part-time capacity. Make sure to reflect on your decision-making process and any measurable outcomes you've achieved.
Cater to the Corporate Environment:Tailor your CV to highlight skills that are crucial for corporate leadership, like strategic thinking, problem-solving, and people management. Don’t forget to mention relevant coursework or certifications that align with the part-time role. It's all about showing how you can bring value to Church of England through your academic and professional background.
Make Your Part-Time Availability Clear:Since this is a part-time role, be upfront about your availability in your cover letter. Let us know how many hours you can dedicate each week and how your schedule fits with the needs of Church of England. This helps us understand how you can seamlessly integrate into our team while balancing your commitments.
Engage with Our Vision:In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for Church of England’s mission and how your values align with our corporate culture. We want to see your passion for leadership and management in action, so don't hold back on conveying what draws you to this specific part-time opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Church of England
✨Show Off Your Strategic Thinking
In corporate leadership, they’re looking for someone who can think strategically and make tough decisions. Be ready to discuss past leadership experiences where you had to analyse complex situations and come up with solutions. Think of using the STAR method to structure your answers—it's a game changer for giving clear examples!
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Expect plenty of behavioural questions during your interview with Church of England. They might ask how you've handled team conflicts or how you’ve inspired others. Brush up on key leadership theories or practices you've applied before, so you can demonstrate your fit for a part-time role without sacrificing experience.
✨Know Your Numbers
Even in part-time corporate roles, you might be asked to discuss key performance indicators or metrics relevant to the position. Brush up on how you’ve used data to drive decisions or track project success. It's a good way to show you understand the business side of leadership and can contribute meaningfully from day one!
✨Demonstrate Flexibility and Commitment
In a part-time role, the ability to adapt to changing priorities is key. Be prepared to talk about how you manage your time and remain committed to your responsibilities. Share a few anecdotes showcasing your dedication and how you maintain high performance even with part-time hours. It's all about showing you can make a difference without being full-time!
