Birmingham Cathedral is the oldest building in the city centre still used for its original purpose. We are home to some remarkable treasures, as well as the largest green space in central Birmingham ...
Non-Executive Cathedral Chapter Member (Trustee)
Practical details
Volunteering • Longer term volunteering
Contact person
Emma Kupsa
Provided
#124932
Scan me or visit www.volunteerbrum.org/o/Birmingham-Cathedral/activities/Non-Executive-Cathedral-Chapter-Member-Trustee/124932 to join
We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate individual to join its Chapter as a non-executive member.
This is a unique opportunity to contribute as a trustee to the cathedral's strategic direction, provide governance and oversight, and share responsibility for the stewardship and sustainability of the resources that support its mission and ministry.
As a member of the Cathedral Chapter, you will share with the Dean in the oversight of cathedral life. Chapter members are invaluable in shaping the direction of the cathedral and ensuring we continue to fulfil our mission and purpose. You will work collaboratively with clergy, staff, volunteers and external partners to uphold the cathedral’s mission, vision, values and strategic priorities.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform the requirements of Charity Trustees for the purposes of the Charities Act 2011.
- Take full part in the discussions and decision making of the Chapter as it fulfils its statutory responsibilities to exercise general control and management of the administration of the cathedral.
- Order the worship of the cathedral and promote its mission;
- Formulate, after consulting the bishop, proposals relating to the general direction and mission of the cathedral.
- Ensure the approval of an annual budget.
- Ensure the preparation and approval of an annual and accounts for audit and subsequent approval.
- Keep under review the Constitution and Statutes.
- Ensure the appropriate management of cathedral property and income, including necessary repairs and maintenance.
- Attend Chapter meetings, held a minimum of six time a year for approximately three hours on a weekday afternoon, including one all-day away-day (all held in Birmingham City Centre).
- Offer an average time commitment of six hours per month may be expected, unevenly spread.
- Attend and contribute to worship at the cathedral.
- Contribute to the ministry of hospitality offered at the cathedral, and other cathedral activities as may be appropriate.
- Attend civic and community events.
- Act as an ambassador for the cathedral.
- Carry out the objects of the cathedral.
- Expect to serve for the full three-year appointment period, with opportunity for reappointment.
Who We Are Looking For
To support delivery of the cathedral’s strategic plan, we particularly welcome applications from individuals at this time with skills in:
- Strategic finance, financial management or stewardship
- Audit, assurance or internal controls.
- Property and heritage asset management
- Fundraising and income generation
- HR, organisational development or governance.
Candidates are not expected to hold experience across the multiple of these criteria to meet the eligibility threshold.
Experience in arts and heritage, community engagement or social justice initiatives, digital communications, investment planning, partnership-building across sectors and urban mission and inclusion would also be welcome.
Person Specification
Essential
- Commitment to the Christian faith and to the cathedral’s mission, vision and values, including wisdom, compassion, justice, inclusion, courage and collaboration.
- Eligibility to serve as a charity trustee.
- Commitment to safeguarding excellence, including completing safeguarding training and contributing to a safe, healthy and positive cathedral culture.
- Ability to think strategically and long-term, exercise sound judgement, and contribute to complex organisational governance.
- Understanding of, or willingness to learn about, the responsibilities of a charity trustee, including accountability, confidentiality and collective decision-making.
- Commitment to the cathedral’s strategic priorities.
- Strong communication skills, with the confidence to challenge constructively, collaborate effectively and build trust across diverse groups.
- Willingness to undertake trustee development and continue learning in support of effective governance.
- Ability to commit the time and energy required for the role, including meetings, preparation and training.
Desirable but not required
- Local knowledge or community context.
Other Information
This is a voluntary role, but reasonable expenses will be reimbursed. Training and support will be provided.
Birmingham Cathedral is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of those under 18 and vulnerable adults. This role is subject to an Enhanced DBS check.
If you interested in applying, please email send us a message and we will advise on recruitment process.
Closing date for applications is noon on Monday 14 September 2026.
Join us in making a meaningful difference at one of Birmingham’s historic and spiritually significant places.
Our Recruiting Approach
As applications are received, interviews may take place prior to the advertised closing date.
We reserve the right to close this advertisement early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.
We welcome applications from underrepresented groups.
We kindly ask no contact from recruitment agencies please.
Related to
About Birmingham Cathedral
Birmingham Cathedral is the oldest building in the city centre still used for its original purpose. We are home to some remarkable treasures, as well as the largest green space in central Birmingham.
Our cathedral is free to visit, and attracts over 150,000 people a year. Our visitors come to us for many different reasons - including to attend services, pray, reflect, light candles, learn about our heritage, take part in key civic events, and to enjoy a range of concerts and events held in our building or Cathedral Square throughout the year.
We are a Christian Church of the Anglican Communion and seat of the Bishop of Birmingham. We offer corporate worship of The Church of England, enriched by the Anglican choral tradition. Christian worship is at the heart of the cathedral’s life as we offer to God our praises and prayers.
Everyone is welcome to attend any of our public services, as we rejoice in the diversity of the communities we serve and promote inclusion as widely as possible.
Birmingham Cathedral Chapter places the safeguarding of all who worship at and visit us as their highest priority. This particularly includes children and at risk adults. As a Church of England Parish Church Cathedral we work closely with our Diocesan Safeguarding colleagues to ensure our practices and policies are providing a safe environment for all.