Embracing New Horizons as Head of Fundraising at Portsmouth Cathedral

As I reflect on my first month as the new Head of Fundraising for Portsmouth Cathedral, the journey has been nothing short of inspiring and transformative. Transitioning from a national children's charity to the heart of Portsmouth's spiritual and historical hub has been an invigorating experience, marked by exciting challenges and promising opportunities.

Dean Anthony, Churchwarden Sheila, and new Head of Fundraising, CP (left to right).

One of the initial focal points of my role has been bridging the gap between my predecessor Sophie and me. The collaborative efforts with the Cathedral Senior Management Team have been instrumental in finalising priorities that will shape our planning for the coming year. This groundwork lays the foundation for the creation of a comprehensive Fundraising Strategy, set to unfold later this year and guide us through the next five years. The upcoming milestones, such as the Centenary in 2027 and the celebration of 850 years of worship on this sacred site in 2030, promise a thrilling journey ahead.

A significant highlight during this month was the privilege of meeting with fundraising leads from all 42 English Cathedrals at a conference hosted in Leicester Cathedral. The exchange of ideas, insights, and shared challenges was not only enlightening but also emphasised the collective strength of the Cathedral community in fundraising endeavours.

Collaboration has been a recurring theme, extending beyond our immediate team to address broader concerns. Working closely with colleagues, we have delved into the cathedral's plans for achieving Net Zero Carbon Emissions by 2030 and the works needed to achieve this. This commitment to sustainability aligns with the broader global efforts to combat climate change, and I am proud to be part of a team dedicated to making a positive impact and in many ways leading the way for Cathedrals.

Networking has been a significant aspect of my first month, both within the cathedral walls and across the city of Portsmouth. The Shaping Portsmouth Annual Conference provided an excellent platform to connect with both old and new colleagues, fostering relationships that will undoubtedly contribute to the success of our fundraising initiatives. Building on existing relationships and forging new ones has been a central focus. I've had the privilege of meeting with our current funding partners, expressing gratitude for their support, and initiating conversations with potential grant funders to bolster our ongoing work.

Immersing myself in the cathedral experience, I have had the opportunity to attend various services, ranging from the lively #PompeyTots gatherings to the reflective Ash Wednesday Eucharist. Each unique service has allowed me to witness the richness of the Cathedral's spiritual life and connect with the diverse range of worshippers it serves.

One of the most heartening aspects of this new chapter has been the warm welcome extended to me by the Cathedral Staff, Clergy, and the diverse communities I have had the pleasure of meeting. The spirit of unity and shared purpose has been palpable, reinforcing my belief in the cathedral's potential to make a lasting impact on the lives of those it serves.

As I look back on this whirlwind of a month, I am filled with gratitude for the warm reception and enthusiastic collaboration that has defined my entry into this new role. The journey ahead holds the promise of exciting challenges, ambitious goals, and the chance to contribute to the legacy of Portsmouth Cathedral in a meaningful way. With a renewed sense of purpose and the support of a dedicated team, I eagerly anticipate the unfolding chapters of our collective story.