At a Glance
- Tasks: Join Exeter Cathedral's Chapter to provide strategic oversight and governance.
- Company: Exeter Cathedral, a historic and vibrant place of worship.
- Benefits: Opportunity to influence the Cathedral's mission and community impact.
- Other info: Flexible commitment with around six meetings a year and a chance to shape the future.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful contribution to a world-class visitor destination.
- Qualifications: Must be a practising Christian with governance experience.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Exeter Cathedral is seeking practicing Christians with strategic leadership experience for the role of Non-Executive Member of Chapter to share in the governance and oversight of the Cathedral’s mission. Reporting to the Dean, the successful candidates will provide external perspectives on governance while supporting the Cathedral’s financial viability and strategic direction.
One appointee will specifically provide strategic oversight of Safeguarding, while the other will ideally bring commercial or entrepreneurial expertise to identify new income streams. Exeter Cathedral’s new Constitution and Statutes, adopted in 2023, require the appointment of at least five Non-Executive Members to serve on Chapter alongside the Dean and the Residentiary Canons. Appointments of Non-Executive Members, who are installed as Chapter Canons, are made by Chapter in consultation with the Bishop of Exeter and on the recommendation of the Cathedral’s Nominations Committee. Appointments are made for a renewable period of up to three years.
As a result of rotation in Chapter membership, one immediate vacancy for a new Non-Executive Member has recently arisen and another will become open in November.
- Immediate Vacancy: Focuses on strategic oversight of Safeguarding alongside general responsibilities. While the Cathedral has a dedicated Safeguarding Officer and specialist support, it is essential that oversight is exercised at the Chapter level.
- November Vacancy: The Cathedral particularly welcomes applications from individuals with Commercial and Entrepreneurial experience. This role will help optimize the Cathedral’s potential as a world-class visitor destination and events venue, which currently attracts over 100,000 visitors annually and hosts over 120 public events, including a Christmas Market visited by over 500,000 people.
Governance and Responsibilities
The Chapter has the general control and management of the administration of the Cathedral. Members serve as Charity Trustees for the purposes of the Charities Act 2011 and are accountable for the Cathedral’s work within the context of Christian worship and mission. Chapter is chaired by the Dean.
Specific Chapter Responsibilities
- To order the worship and promote the mission of the Cathedral.
- To formulate proposals, after consulting the Bishop, regarding the strategic direction and mission of the Cathedral.
- To prepare an annual budget.
- To prepare an annual report and accounts for audit and approval.
- To keep the constitution and statutes under review.
- To manage Cathedral property and income, ensuring necessary repairs and maintenance for the Cathedral, its contents, and other buildings/monuments.
Principal Responsibilities for Non-Executive Members
- Share responsibility for the governance, oversight, and leadership of the Cathedral.
- Provide external perspectives and constructive challenge to full-time Chapter members to ensure proper governance.
- Participate fully in Chapter meetings and other Chapter work, including sitting on or chairing sub-committees.
- Join in key aspects of the ceremonial and worshipping life of the Cathedral.
Note: Non-Executives do not usually have management responsibilities for staff but may support staff in achieving specific objectives.
Person Specification
- Commitment to the mission and work of the Cathedral.
- Must be a baptised and confirmed member of the Anglican Church, or of a Church in communion with the Church of England, or of a church that subscribes to the doctrine of the Holy Trinity.
- Experience of governance in a complex organisation.
- Ability to attend meetings during business hours and participate in Cathedral services.
- Strong teamwork and communication skills across all levels.
- Relevant experience (as outlined in the vacancy descriptions) to support the Cathedral’s work.
- Willingness to undergo DBS Enhanced Disclosure and attend Safeguarding training.
- Ideally, experience as a Charity Trustee.
Time Commitment
Approximately six Chapter meetings per year (usually on the third Thursday of the month). Members are encouraged to attend Morning Prayer (8:15 am) and Eucharist (8:35 am) preceding meetings. At least one Chapter Awayday annually. Additional sub-committee meetings based on the member's specific area of expertise.
Non-Executive Members of Chapter in Devon employer: Exeter Cathedral
Exeter Cathedral offers a unique opportunity for practicing Christians with strategic leadership experience to engage in meaningful governance and oversight of its mission. As a Non-Executive Member of Chapter, you will be part of a supportive and collaborative work culture that values diverse perspectives, while contributing to the Cathedral's financial viability and strategic direction. With a commitment to fostering personal and professional growth, Exeter Cathedral provides an enriching environment where your expertise can help shape its future as a world-class visitor destination.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Non-Executive Members of Chapter in Devon
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the church community or local organisations. You never know who might have insights or leads on opportunities at Exeter Cathedral.
✨Tip Number 2
Get involved! Attend events at the Cathedral and engage with the community. This will not only show your commitment but also help you understand the Cathedral's mission and values better.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your governance knowledge. Familiarise yourself with the Cathedral’s Constitution and Statutes, and think about how your strategic experience can contribute to their mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Chapter and supporting the Cathedral’s work.
We think you need these skills to ace Non-Executive Members of Chapter in Devon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff:Before you start writing, make sure you understand the role and the Cathedral's mission. Highlight your strategic leadership experience and how it aligns with the Cathedral’s goals. We want to see how you can contribute to our governance!
Be Authentic:Let your personality shine through in your application. Share your passion for the Cathedral’s mission and your commitment as a practicing Christian. We’re looking for genuine candidates who resonate with our values.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific skills and experiences that match the Non-Executive Member role. Show us why you’re the perfect fit for this position.
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to the right people. Plus, it helps us keep track of all the amazing candidates like you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Exeter Cathedral
✨Know Your Mission
Before the interview, take some time to really understand Exeter Cathedral's mission and values. Reflect on how your own beliefs and experiences align with their goals. This will help you articulate why you're passionate about the role and how you can contribute to their strategic direction.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your strategic leadership experience in detail. Think of specific examples where you've provided governance or oversight in a complex organisation. Highlight any relevant experience as a Charity Trustee, especially if it relates to financial viability or safeguarding.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions that demonstrate your understanding of the Cathedral's challenges and opportunities. Ask about their current strategies for income generation or how they ensure effective safeguarding practices. This shows your genuine interest and strategic thinking.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Communication
Since the role involves working closely with the Dean and other Chapter members, be prepared to discuss your teamwork and communication skills. Share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with diverse teams and navigated complex discussions, ensuring you highlight your ability to provide constructive challenge.
