In September 2023, Paul Chandler was the newest member to join Chapter, the cathedral’s governing body.
Paul also become an honorary Lay Canon working alongside existing Chapter members, including the Very Reverend Phillip Plyming, Dean of Durham, towards the mission of ensuring the cathedral’s financial sustainability and reaching out to new audiences, so that the cathedral can continue to pass on its rich Christian heritage to future generations.
As a member of the cathedral’s governing body, Paul will have a role advising areas of the cathedral's activity, bringing his wealth of expertise to the team.
Paul was previously Chair of the cathedral's council, and he was chief executive of Christian publisher and booksellers SPCK, where he is now a trustee of the Bible Society.
After spending nine years in banking, Paul Chandler has focused his career on promoting fair trade and responsible business practices, alongside involvement in a wide range of Church and charitable organisations.
He is also a Fellow and Vice Chair of governors at St Chad’s College in Durham University.
Under new legislation passed by Parliament in May 2021, the cathedral is preparing to register under the Charity Commission and all members of Chapter will in future become Trustees.
Images from Paul's installation
What is Chapter?
The Chapter is the governing body of the Cathedral, providing strategic direction and oversight.
The Chapter is formed of both clergy and lay people. The Dean and all Residentiary Canons are members. In addition, up to four lay persons, who are communicants, may be appointed by the Bishop in consultation with the Dean and other members of the Chapter. The Chapter is chaired by the Dean.
All new Chapter members must undertake an Association of English Cathedrals programme of induction, which covers Cathedral legislation, governance, Cathedral finances and property management.