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 Exeter employer: Exeter Cathedral
Exeter Cathedral offers a unique opportunity for practicing Christians with strategic leadership experience to contribute to the governance and mission of a historic institution. With a commitment to fostering a collaborative work culture, the Cathedral encourages personal growth through active participation in its ceremonial life and strategic oversight roles. As a prominent visitor destination, employees can engage in meaningful work that supports both community and spiritual objectives while enjoying the rich heritage of Exeter.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Non-Executive Members of Chapter in Exeter
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the church community or related sectors. You never know who might have insights or connections that could help you land that Non-Executive Member role at Exeter Cathedral.
✨Tip Number 2
Get familiar with the Cathedral's mission and values. When you understand what they stand for, you can tailor your conversations and show how your strategic leadership experience aligns perfectly with their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those interviews! Think about how your past experiences can contribute to the governance and oversight of the Cathedral. Be ready to discuss your ideas on safeguarding and income generation.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Non-Executive Members of Chapter in Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let us see your commitment to the Cathedral's mission in your application. Share your personal connection to the Church and how it shapes your leadership style. We want to know why you care!
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to showcase any governance experience you've had, especially in complex organisations. If you've got commercial or entrepreneurial skills, don't hold back! We’re keen to see how you can help us identify new income streams.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and structure your thoughts logically. We appreciate a well-organised application that makes it easy for us to see your strengths.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from 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 envision the role of Non-Executive Members evolving in the future.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Communication
Since this role involves collaboration with other Chapter members, be sure to highlight your teamwork and communication skills. Share examples of how you've successfully worked with diverse teams and navigated complex discussions, ensuring you convey your ability to provide constructive challenge while supporting others.
