Location - Rugby Hours - 39 hours per week Salary range £35,084 - £38,369 depending on experience The Heart of England Co-operative Society is seeking an experienced and community-focused Lead Community Funeral Director to uphold our long-standing reputation for delivering exceptional funeral care. This pivotal role ensures the highest standards throughout every stage of the funeral journey-before, during and after-while leading colleagues across a cluster of funeral branches to deliver service excellence, operational quality and meaningful community engagement. About the Role As a Lead Community Funeral Director, you will oversee operational standards, lead and conduct funerals, and support colleagues across client-facing and support teams. You will ensure every client receives thoughtful, personalised care by establishing their needs, advising on products and services, and maintaining strong relationships with external agencies such as crematoria, clergy, hospitals and care homes. You will champion high professional standards, ensure compliance with relevant regulatory bodies, support colleague development, and contribute to the Society's goals through effective operational leadership, community activity and business development. Key Responsibilities Lead funeral arrangements and conduct funerals, ensuring client wishes are fully met. Oversee operational standards across your allocated locations, including premises, vehicles and service delivery. Deliver exceptional client service and support colleagues in achieving performance objectives. Build strong relationships with external partners and act as an ambassador for the Society. Maintain accurate administrative and regulatory documentation in line with internal processes. Support community engagement activities to promote the business locally. Ensure the effective care of the deceased and uphold high presentation standards. Identify training needs and contribute to the professional development of Community Funeral Directors, Funeral Service Operatives, Logistics Co-ordinators, Embalmers and Personal Funeral Advisors. Participate in an out-of-hours rota, including nights, weekends and public holidays. Promote colleague wellbeing and support recruitment, performance and conduct processes. About You You will bring a minimum of three years' experience in a funeral directing role along with the NAFD Diploma in Funeral Directing (or equivalent). You will be an effective leader with excellent communication skills, strong product knowledge, and the ability to manage a variety of operational demands. You will be confident engaging with the community, delivering presentations, and representing the Society with professionalism and compassion. Pre-Employment Screening If you are successful in your application, you will be required to complete standard pre-employment screening checks, including a basic DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check. What We Offer In return for your commitment and dedication, we offer a comprehensive benefits package, including: Staff discount across our 38 Food Stores and 16 Funeral branches. Employee Assistance Programme. Discounts with Co-operative Travel and AHF Furniture stores. Enhanced annual leave entitlements (rising with service). Eye care benefits, including free eye tests and contributions towards glasses for screen work. A competitive pension scheme. If you are an empathetic leader who is passionate about serving local families and supporting communities, we would be pleased to receive your application.