Advertised from 17 April 2026

Role

St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral, Palmerston Place, Edinburgh, is seeking to appoint an office administrator. They will be responsible for administering the use and repair of Cathedral properties, for managing the bookings diary, and for ensuring that pastoral enquiries are passed on in a timely manner. They will work closely with the Book-keeper in the administration of Cathedral finances; with the Publicity and Events Officer in ensuring the smooth running of events in the Cathedral; and with the Assistant Organist in the administration of the music department.

Person specification:

Competent to use Microsoft Office tools – Word; Access; Excel; Teams. Experience with online accounting software (eg Xero) is desirable.

Approachable and unflappable.

An understanding of the church year and its particular pressures.

Self-motivated and able to take initiative under supervision.

Church membership is not a requirement, but the successful candidate will be in sympathy with the aims and objectives of St Mary’s Cathedral.  

Main tasks:

Act as a first point of contact for both congregational and external enquiries via email, phone and in person, forwarding to clergy/other staff where appropriate.

Deal with tradespeople and negotiate Cathedral contracts/utility suppliers etc, checking regularly to ensure that best prices/service are being obtained. Liaising with Cathedral Architect and Vergers as appropriate. 

Work alongside Publicity and Events Officer to deal with bookings for the Cathedral, Walpole Hall, and Song School including weddings, school bookings, concerts etc. Liaise with Book-keeper for invoicing in timely manner. Create rotas and act as point of contact for Edinburgh Festival volunteers and for volunteers for special events.

Ensure that Public Entertainment Licence and appropriate Alcohol Licences are obtained and all conditions shared with relevant people. Complete and file PRS returns and Church copyright licence on a quarterly basis.

Work with Payroll (provided by Alexander Sloans) to facilitate payments of monthly salaries and additional payments/expenses.

Maintain oversight of car park including invoicing and ensuring that payment has been made.

Make orders to suppliers as required and advised by colleagues (eg stationery supplies etc).

Take notes at weekly team meetings and other meetings as required.  

Take and distribute minutes at Cathedral Board and Cathedral Council meetings (both usually quarterly).

Support clergy team to maintain Cathedral Roll, produce and distribute materials for AGM, stewardship, Christmas services etc.

Application notes

Applications: 

Applications should be made in writing and include a CV. Please email to: viceprovost@cathedral.net

Closing Date: 

Informal enquiries to the Vice Provost, Marion Chatterley

viceprovost@cathdral.net 07771 982163

Closing date 15 May