English Cathedrals announce new Executive Director

Anna has great experience in the cathedral sector, she joined Birmingham Cathedral as Director of Development in January 2014.

That followed an 11-year career as a charity fundraiser.

She served as CEO there from 2015 and during her time at Birmingham Cathedral she was nominated by both the AEC and CAFA (Cathedral Administration and Finance Association) to represent their interests on the Bishoprics and Cathedrals Committee of the Church Commissioners.

Anna Pitt has been named as the new Executive Director of the Association of English Cathedrals.

The Dean of St Albans, the Very Revd Jo Kelly Moore, who chairs the AEC said:

‘It is fantastic news for our English Cathedrals that Anna Pitt has been appointed as the new Executive Director of the Association of English Cathedrals. 

‘Building on all the great work of the AEC over the last 25 years, having been CEO at Birmingham Cathedral, Vice Chair of CAFA, a member of the Executive Committee the AEC, and of the Bishoprics and Cathedrals Committee, Anna brings skills, experience, and commitment to this strategic role. 

‘Anna has done a wonderful job as Interim Executive Director and under her leadership we can look forward confidently to all that lies ahead as we work to support the sustainability and flourishing of our Cathedrals.’

On the appointment, Anna said,

‘I am immensely privileged and honoured to have been appointed to the permanent role of Executive Director with the AEC. 

‘Having worked in a Cathedral for over 11 years, I’ve developed a huge passion for our cathedral sector, for the splendour and majesty of the buildings, the commitment and passion of the people, and the potential and opportunity in their presence. I am excited about the next chapter for AEC as we continue to resource, support and champion our cathedrals.’

Anna succeeds Sarah King, Executive Director of the Association of English Cathedrals (AEC) since 2005, who retired on 31 January 2025.