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Winchester Cathedral welcomes new COO and CFO as it looks to the future.

As Winchester Cathedral embarks on its next phase of development during a time of profound change, the new year marks the official appointment of Alison Evans as its Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Gary Carpenter as Chief Finance Officer (CFO). 

As senior leaders in the cathedral team, both Alison and Gary will be instrumental in the future growth and development of the Cathedral, working in partnership with the Dean and Chapter to deliver strategic objectives while living and demonstrating the values of cathedral life. 

In line with the Cathedral’ s vision to renew, inspire and unite people in faith, hope and love, the new COO and CFO will be responsible for promoting the heritage of the Cathedral, implementing plans which will ensure a positive and sustainable future that supports the wider Hampshire community.

With a pivotal role in the Cathedral, Alison will oversee the care and conservation of the cathedral church and its estate, contributing to the development and implementation of strategy through participation at Chapter and as part of the Senior Management Group.

Previously, Alison spent the last 13 years working for the National Trust, initially as the General Manager at Mottisfont near Romsey, and latterly as an Assistant Director of Operations, supporting groups of properties across Hampshire, the Isle of Wight and Sussex. Alison had a specialist role in curatorship, the arts and visitor experience, with a particular interest in welcoming and engaging as many people as possible. Her earlier career was spent as a university lecturer and project manager in the construction and landscape sectors.

Alison lives close to Salisbury with her family, and is a long-standing member of the cathedral congregation there. She is very keen on choral music – singing in the Salisbury Festival Arts Chorus – but also enjoys gardening, photography and Parkrun.

Alison Evans comments: “I look forward to working collaboratively with the Dean, Chapter and staff to fulfil the Cathedral’s vision to share our faith and heritage globally. As part of my role, I will continue leading the mission to support and empower people within our cathedral community and beyond, forging partnerships with our  local community in the region and diocese”.

Working closely with the COO, Gary will develop the financial strategy that will formulate the future strategic direction and support tactical initiatives which underpin the Cathedral’s aspirations. 

Gary brings over 30 years’ of experience, operating at board level in commercial organisations in the manufacturing, shipping, consultancy and charity sectors. He is also currently a member of the Audit and Governance Committee for the Diocese of Southwark and is a chartered accountant, having qualified with PWC.

Gary Carpenter said: “I am pleased to be joining the team, offering my experience and expertise in delivering financial support that will help to aid in the recovery of the pandemic. I look forward to achieving our vision as we build on the sustainable growth for the future of the Cathedral.”

On these appointments, the Dean of Winchester, the Very Revd Catherine Ogle said: “I am delighted to welcome both Alison and Gary to the Cathedral at this pivotal time. I am confident that the new COO and CFO will play their unique parts in shaping the future life, growth and sustainability of the Cathedral at this vital time when faith, hope and love are needed more than ever.”