Bereavement Manager (Operations)

Are you an experienced crematorium or cemetery manager looking for the opportunity to lead a modern bereavement service?

Worcester City Council is seeking an exceptional professional to help shape the future of bereavement services from a newly opened crematorium featuring two new electric cremators and the implementation of the sector-leading PlotBox management system. This is a unique opportunity to combine operational leadership, technical expertise and service innovation in a role that genuinely makes a difference to local families.

This is a rare opportunity to play a leading role in the development of a modern bereavement service following significant investment in its future.

Our newly opened crematorium is equipped with two new fully abated electric cremators, placing Worcester at the forefront of environmentally responsible cremation services. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to shape operational practices, optimise performance and help embed new ways of working within a state-of-the-art facility.

In addition, the service is currently implementing PlotBox, the leading cemetery, crematorium and funeral management software used internationally across the bereavement sector. The Bereavement Manager will play a key role in embedding this newly purchased system, leading the transition from existing processes, driving staff adoption, improving data quality and helping realise the benefits of a fully integrated digital bereavement management platform.

This role would suit an experienced cemetery or crematorium manager who enjoys not only running high-performing operations but also leading service improvement, digital transformation and organisational change. It offers a unique opportunity to influence the future of bereavement services in a progressive local authority while maintaining the highest standards of care, professionalism and compliance. The service undertakes approximately 2,250 cremations and 110 full burials each year.

As Bereavement Manager (Operations), you will provide the day-to-day leadership needed to ensure that our crematorium, cemeteries, chapel and grounds operate safely, smoothly and to the highest professional standards. You will also help develop the service for the future, balancing technical compliance, excellent customer care, environmental responsibility and sound commercial management.

The role

You will take operational responsibility for the effective delivery of cremations, burials, chapel services and associated grounds operations. Working closely with colleagues, funeral directors, memorial masons, coroners, medical referees, faith representatives and other partners, you will ensure that every service is delivered with dignity, sensitivity and attention to detail.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Leading the safe, efficient and compliant operation of the crematorium
• Overseeing cremator performance, filtration and abatement equipment, emissions information and environmental permit requirements
• 11 members of staff. Planning daily capacity, staffing rotas and work schedules across cremations, burials, chapel services and cemetery operations
• Maintaining accurate statutory registers, cremation records and deeds of exclusive rights of burial
• Leading, motivating and developing operational, professional and seasonal staff
• Providing technical guidance, structured training and mentoring across the service
• Managing cemetery and crematorium health and safety, including risk assessments, safe systems of work and memorial safety
• Leading the grounds team and maintaining high standards across Astwood and St John’s
• Managing budgets, procurement, equipment and other operational resources
• Reviewing performance information and identifying opportunities for service improvement and income generation
• Acting as the senior escalation point for complex enquiries and complaints, ensuring that bereaved families receive clear, compassionate and professional support
• Deputising for the Bereavement and Greenspaces Services Manager when required.

You will have:

• Proven management experience within a crematorium, cemetery or another highly regulated public-service environment
• A strong technical understanding of cremator operations, abatement systems and cemetery land-management processes
• Experience completing and overseeing statutory cremation and burial documentation
• Experience reviewing emissions information and maintaining compliance with an environmental permit
• Sound knowledge of relevant health and safety requirements
• Experience managing and developing operational teams, setting clear expectations and monitoring performance
• The ability to manage budgets, procurement and financial reporting
• A recognised bereavement-services qualification, such as the ICCM Diploma in Cemetery and Crematorium Management, or an appropriate equivalent
• Excellent organisational skills and the confidence to exercise professional judgement
• The composure and empathy required to work sensitively with bereaved families
• A full driving licence and the flexibility to work occasional evenings or weekends when operationally necessary.

If you are an experienced bereavement-services professional who combines technical knowledge with compassionate leadership, this is an opportunity to bring your expertise to a high-profile public service and help us build on a major investment in its future.

This role requires an enhanced DBS check. We welcome applications from all sections of the community. We would like to help you shine during this process. If you need any assistance with applying please contact the Recruitment team on recruitment@worcester.gov.uk. We can assist with alternative formats for your application or offer a MS Teams interview for example.

For further information about the role, please contact Warwick Neale, Bereavement and Greenspace Manager, at warwick.neale@worcester.gov.uk

Closing Date: 22nd November 2026

Interview date: 15th December 2026