Contract
Permanent
Salary
The salary for this role falls within the range of £65,000-£79,000.
Hours per week
Full-time.
Deadline for applications
Wednesday 14 October 2026 at 9am.
Job Description
At the heart of the role is the long-term stewardship of internationally significant historic fabric. Working towards Vision 2033, you will translate conservation management plans and quinquennial inspection priorities into a deliverable programme of repair, maintenance and carefully judged adaptation.
You will lead a circa £60 million programme spanning specialist masonry, glazing, timberwork and building services; secure heritage and planning consents; and oversee projects from feasibility through procurement and delivery. You will work closely with the Cathedral Architect, Cathedral Archaeologist, statutory heritage bodies, specialist advisers, contractors and the Cathedral’s skilled in-house stonemasons and property teams.
We are looking for a professionally qualified senior property leader with deep experience of conserving highly significant historic buildings or estates, strong knowledge of traditional materials and conservation practice, and a proven record of delivering complex capital projects in live, sensitive settings. You will combine sound heritage judgement with commercial, financial and team leadership skills.
As a member of the Executive Leadership Team, you will provide visible, collaborative leadership and balance exemplary conservation with safety, sustainability, operational use and financial resilience. This is a rare opportunity to safeguard a place of international importance while enabling it to serve worshippers, visitors and communities for generations to come.
In line with the Cathedral’s Safer Recruitment procedures, applicants must be willing and able to undergo the relevant pre-employment checks, including provision of proof of eligibility to work in the UK, a full and complete employment history, satisfactory references and a Basic Disclosure and Barring Service check.
Safeguarding
Durham Cathedral is committed to safeguarding. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. For further details, please refer to our Safeguarding Policy Statement.
Timeline
Advertised from: Friday 18 September 2026.
Closing date for receipt of completed application form: Wednesday 14 October 2026 at 9am.
Interview date: Tuesday 3 and/or Thursday 5 November 2026.
Who works here?
Our dedicated clergy and staff, supported by around 450 volunteers, support our mission as we welcome over 400,000 visitors each year.
Staff benefits
We offer a range of benefits including enhanced holiday allowance, pension, an employee-assistance program, a health cash plan and more.
