This may not be the best photo of James, but you can't deny that the enthusiasm he brings to his job with us is evident all over his face! However, today we are sharing some great news for him and some sad news for us.

James writes: 

A Change of Seasons 

I have some news to share. After 3 wonderful years as the Head of Operations with St Mary Redcliffe I will be departing in early 2025. I have been offered the role as Director at the Dr Jenner House and Museum, an opportunity I have found too great a chance to turn down. 

When I arrived at St Mary Redcliffe back in early 2022 I was inspired by the vision and ambition of those I met from across the breadth of the Church. There was a determination and be the best the Church could be for the congregation, community, and visitors. This ambition was matched by the magnificent building and fascinating history that I fell in love with as I discovered more and more about it. 

The pandemic had obviously caused a setback to the development plans in some areas, with the Parish Office still largely empty and the church not yet fully reopened. In other ways the church had sped up plans, in particular the community team and the development of the Hub was a huge success. There was a lot of work to do. 

Since those early days, almost 3 years ago, I am proud of the part I have played in a period of reflection and recovery, followed by significant changes to the fabric of the organisation (both physical and metaphorical!). From light shows welcoming 15,000 visitors, significant changes in financial and compliance management, the restoration of the South Porch, and the national coverage of the new Colston panels as we continue explore the contested heritage of the church. We have invested in the future sustainability of the Church, exploring heating and lighting options that will help contribute to the Church of England’s net zero ambitions. We are working hard to improve the financial outlook for the building, with our events business growing from £7000 to £70,000 in just a few years, changes to our fundraising, and starring roles in TV productions. We continue to realise the amazing heritage potential of the building with increasing visitors, drawn by exhibitions and improved interpretation of the many stories of St Mary Redcliffe. St Mary Redcliffe is deservedly retaking its place in the centre of modern Bristol life. 

Most importantly, I am so proud of the incredible team of staff, clergy, volunteers, and contractors that I have had the pleasure of working alongside. The staff team has changed significantly over the last few years as we have sought out the best people to take on the opportunities and challenges of the Church’s mission and vision. Being a part of the Senior Leadership Team with Laura and Dan has been a privilege, and I am confident that the future of St Mary Redcliffe is ambitions but resourced. Change is a part of life, and it is with very mixed feelings that I share my news with you. I genuinely love my job, and I love working with this these incredible people. I am proud of the journey we have come on and know there will continue to be a great future ahead here, hopefully for at least another 800 years. 

I will be working hard over next few months with the SLT and churchwardens to find the best possible candidate to fill this role and to ensure a smooth handover process. Although my departure is still a little way off yet, I just want to share how grateful I am to you all for being so welcoming, supportive, and kind. Thank you, this is truly a special place. 

We will miss James' boundless enthusiasm and will always be grateful for the amazing journey he has taken us on. However, we cannot stand still and we are now looking for his successor. 

Terms & Conditions can be found on the website here: Head of Operations Ts&Cs

Full Job Pack can be downloaded here: Head of Operations Job Pack

Please do share this information as widely as possible. 

Dan Tyndall

15 November 2024