Carol Thomas appointed Derby Cathedral’s Chief Operating Officer

The Chapter of Derby Cathedral is very pleased to announce the appointment of Carol Thomas as the new Chief Operating Officer for Derby Cathedral. This is a new post that incorporates the previous role of Chapter Steward.

Carol will lead the administration of the cathedral and be responsible for resourcing Chapter in the delivery of its responsibilities, including both operations and strategy.

Carol joined Derby Cathedral as Head of Operations in March 2018 and before that was an operations manager. Carol, who has lived in Derby for more than 30 years, is married with two grown up children and is a keen Derby County supporter and open water enthusiast!

The Dean of Derby, The Very Revd Dr Peter Robinson, said: ‘The Chapter members and I warmly welcome Carol to her new role. Carol has all the gifts and skills that are required of the senior lay post in the cathedral community. The Chief Operating Officer role will be vital to ensure that the cathedral’s leadership team is equipped to meet its goals over the coming years. Carol is already well known within the city and county, and I know that her appointment will be warmly welcomed by all.’

Carol said: ‘I am absolutely delighted to have been given this opportunity and am so very pleased the dean and chapter have the faith and belief in my ability to take on this role. Throughout my career, my mantra has always been “you are only as good as the team around you” and this is so very true here in Derby Cathedral.  I very much look forward to working with the Cathedral team in shaping and developing the exciting opportunities and overcoming the challenges we will face as we enter a period of change for the cathedral, the city, and the Diocese of Derby.’

Val Grahl, chapter member, said: ‘We are delighted that Carol has accepted our invitation to become our new Chief Operating Officer. Carol’s strong leadership skills, business acumen and her ability to build relationships with partners will be invaluable to the life, ministry and mission of Derby Cathedral. We are looking forward to working with Carol as we shape our vision for the future and respond to the changing needs within the city and the Diocese of Derby.’

For more information, please contact the Cathedral office on 01332 341201.