15th September 2017

New Executive Director wanted for Lancashire landmark

A fantastic new Executive Director role running one of the biggest buildings in Lancashire has recently been advertised.

But this is no ordinary Director position – it is a chance make a real difference to the day-to-day running of Lancashire’s Anglican Cathedral, sited in Blackburn town centre.

In recent years Blackburn Cathedral has gone from strength to strength. It’s reputation as a centre of music excellence is well known; and its community cohesion work is recognised as outstanding.

Significantly, in recent years the Cathedral has also been at the centre of a stunning renaissance in the centre of Blackburn – being the jewel in the crown of the new Cathedral Quarter development – while its own transformation has been taking place at the same time – in the shape of Cathedral Court.

Cathedral Court is the first major extension to any of England’s cathedrals for more than 500 years. The stunning courtyard setting, opened last year by the Archbishop of York, is now home to many of the Cathedral’s clergy and staff.

The new Executive Director role is, therefore, an exciting opportunity at a strategic moment in the life of what is one of the nation’s youngest cathedrals. The successful candidate will work closely with the Dean and members of the Cathedral Chapter to influence the future of Cathedral ministry across Lancashire.

They will be the senior lay member of staff whose primary responsibility is to be manage the day-to-day administration of the Cathedral, its finance, business development, properties, employees and volunteers.

Speaking today about the Executive Director role, the Dean, The Very Rev Peter Howell-Jones, said: “Since I joined the Cathedral team from Chester Cathedral earlier this year I have been amazed at the incredible energy and enthusiasm displayed by everyone who worships and works here.

“Being a key part of the work to take Blackburn Cathedral to the next level as Executive Director will be an exciting opportunity. The successful candidate will work alongside me and my senior colleagues to achieve our ongoing aims for the Cathedral itself and as part of the wider Diocese – particularly in the context of the Diocesan Vision 2026.

“I will be praying for all the applicants and for God’s guidance in choosing the right person for the role when the time comes.”

Closing date for the Executive Director post will be September 22, with interviews taking place on October 4/5. More information on this page of the Blackburn Cathedral website.