DURHAM Cathedral has appointed a new Chapter Clerk and chief operating officer.

Amanda Anderson, who is director of strategic development and operations at Bradford Cathedral, will arrive in Durham early 2018. Her recruitment follows the announcement that the incumbent, Philip Davies, is retiring from the position in March next year.

While at Bradford Cathedral Ms Anderson simultaneously managed several capital projects.

She previously had a distinguished career in the Armed Forces that saw her serve with the Royal Irish Regiment and the Royal Army Medical Corps.

She said: “To be a key player at one of Britain’s favourite cathedrals is a rare and fantastic opportunity that I could not resist applying for.

“I feel very privileged and humbled to have been selected to lead the talented management team in the truly magnificent and unique setting that is Durham Cathedral.”

She added: “I am looking forward to utilising my skills to work collaboratively with the Dean, Chapter and staff in order to fulfil Durham Cathedral’s vision to share our faith and heritage globally, and to empower people to transform the communities in which we live and serve.”

On her appointment, the Very Reverend Andrew Tremlett, Dean of Durham said: “We look forward to welcoming Amanda to the Cathedral as our new Chapter Clerk and chief operating officer.

“There was an extremely strong field of candidates with many applicants excited by the prospect of working at ‘the best Cathedral on planet earth’, as it is famously described by writer Bill Bryson.

“Amanda presented herself as the outstanding candidate with a wealth of experience, in particular her knowledge of the working of cathedrals gained in her current post at Bradford Cathedral, as well as a career in the British Army stretching over 21 years.”

She enjoys all outdoor activities especially hill walking, running and cycling and has competed in many running events.