Chief Operating Officer in Bradford

Bradford Cathedral are seeking an adaptable Chief Operating Officer to translate vision into operational excellence during a transformative era.

Location: Bradford, BD1 4EH

About Bradford Cathedral

Bradford Cathedral stands at the spiritual and civic heart of one of the UK’s youngest and most diverse cities. Our story brings together over 1,400 years of Christian witness, woven into the rich fabric of the city and beyond. We are an integral part of the mission and work of the Anglican Diocese of Leeds, serving as the seat of the Bishop and a centre for worship and music. Guided by our values of Interculturality, Rootedness, Innovativeness and Hospitality, we seek to play a transformative role in Bradford’s life. We are home to a thriving worshipping community and offer a rich pattern of liturgy and prayer alongside a wide range of cultural, educational and community activities. We aim to be a safe place for gathering when local or global events require a spiritual response or honest conversation. Our vision is to ensure that all can discover who they were created to be and that no one is passed by.

About the role

The Chief Operating Officer role exists to support worship, mission, parish life and civic engagement to flourish by ensuring that people, resources, governance and operations are aligned. You will act as a governance advisor to the Dean and Chapter, supporting them in fulfilling their responsibilities under the Cathedrals Measure 2021 and charity law. Your key responsibilities will include translating the Cathedral’s vision into clear, deliverable operational plans with realistic milestones. You will provide leadership across the staff team, fostering a culture of learning, well‑being and accountability. This role involves direct line management of the Director of Finance, Head of Fundraising, Office Manager, Head Verger and the Events & Marketing Officer. You will also oversee the day‑to‑day operational life of the Cathedral, including the effective stewardship of our historic buildings and precinct. Working closely with the Director of Finance, you will support financial sustainability and prudent resource management. This position requires a leader who can combine high‑level strategic oversight with appropriate hands‑on involvement.

Who we are looking for

We are seeking an outstanding senior leader who is motivated by the mission, public role and long‑term flourishing of Bradford Cathedral. The successful candidate will bring both professional credibility and relational intelligence to work effectively within a cathedral context, holding together the complementary contributions of lay and ordained colleagues, staff and volunteers. You will be a resilient and adaptable leader, able to navigate complexity, lead change and ensure the effective and sustainable operation of the Cathedral’s life and work.

• A clear commitment to the Cathedral’s mission, values and long‑term sustainability.
• The ability to build strong, trusted relationships across a diverse community, including clergy, staff, volunteers and external partners.
• Experience of working at Board or Director level, advising and supporting non‑executive decision‑makers.
• Proven ability to lead and manage change within complex and evolving environments.
• Strong financial and organisational leadership, including budgeting, forecasting and risk management.
• Excellent communication skills, with the judgement and diplomacy to navigate competing priorities.
• An understanding of, and sensitivity to, the life of the Church and the role of a cathedral in its civic and diocesan context.
• Experience in the not for profit or charity sector is desirable.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Wednesday 29th April 2026.