Governance

But they are also modern organisations seeking to make an important spiritual, social and cultural contribution in today’s world.

Winchester Cathedral’s governing body, Chapter, work as a team led by the Dean to agree strategy, foster strong community links, build excellent worship and welcome activities, and ensure we have sound buildings and finances.

The members of Chapter operate in much the same way as the trustee body of a charity. They are supported in their task of directing and overseeing the affairs of the Cathedral by a range of oversight, advice and support structures.

Many of the people who contribute to our sound governance give us their time and expertise on a volunteer basis. The Dean and Chapter are deeply grateful for their support and guidance.

The Bishop of Winchester

The Bishop of Winchester leads the Diocese of Winchester, which covers most of Hampshire, east Dorset and the Channel Islands. The Bishop holds the role of Visitor at the Cathedral, where they have their principal seat (in Latin, cathedra). The Bishop plays a key role in advising, directing and supporting Chapter in its general direction and mission.

Chapter Committees

Fabric Advisory Committee

Maintaining the fabric of our buildings is a vital and ongoing task that requires specialist knowledge. This group of experts advises Chapter on conservation issues and any alterations to buildings. At a national level, they answer to the Cathedrals Fabric Commission for England, and liaise with English Heritage. It meets three times a year.

Finance and Investment Advisory Committee
This committee gives the Dean and Chapter expert advice on the Cathedral’s financial assets, including finances and investments. It is required to have between four and seven members which comprise experts in financial and investment matters and is chaired by a member of Chapter. It meets four times a year.

Audit and Risk Committee
The purpose of this committee is to provide independent oversight of the Cathedral’s systems of internal control, risk management and financial reporting, and supervise the quality, independence and effectiveness of the statutory auditors. It is required to have a minimum of three members who have relevant experience and expertise and meets three times a year.

Nominations Committee

The Nominations Committee keeps under review the skills, knowledge, experience and diversity of members of Chapter and its subcommittees, and advises Chapter on the recruitment of non-executive members on these bodies and their training needs.

It is required to have between three and five members and the Dean is entitled to attend if not a member. It meets at least two times a year and additionally as required.

Other bodies supporting Chapter:

Winchester Cathedral Enterprises Ltd
Our trading company is wholly owned by Chapter and manages all our commercial activities, including retail, box office, catering and events. It covenants all its taxable profits to support the mission and ministry of the Cathedral. Its Board of Directors comprise non-executive directors with particular commercial experience together with a representative of Chapter and the Chief Operating Officer. It meets at least quarterly.

The College of Canons
The College of Canons brings together the experience and knowledge of ordained and lay clergy from the Cathedral and the Bishop’s office. It plays an important role in supporting the Cathedral’s mission and ministry in the wider Diocese of Winchester. Its members meet three times a year.

The Cathedral Community
The Cathedral Community represents the Cathedral’s congregation, staff, volunteers and supporters. Membership is open to anyone aged over 16 who worships at the Cathedral, works for it or holds an office connected to it.