Dean of Southwell

The Dean of Southwell is the head (primus inter pares – first among equals) and chair of the chapter of canons, the ruling body of Southwell Minster. The dean and chapter are based at the Cathedral and Parish Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Southwell, Nottinghamshire. Before 2000 the post was designated as a provost, which was then the equivalent of a dean at most English cathedrals. The cathedral is the mother church of the Diocese of Southwell and Nottingham and seat of the Bishop of Southwell and Nottingham. The current dean is Nicola Sullivan.

Provosts

 * 1931–1945 William Conybeare
 * 1945–1969 Hugh Heywood
 * 1970–1978 John Pratt
 * 1978–1991 Murray Irvine
 * 1991–19 March 2000 David Leaning (became Dean)

Deans

 * 19 March 2000–2006 David Leaning
 * 8 September 2007 – 30 June 2014 (ret.) John Guille
 * 30 June 2014 – 17 September 2016: Nigel Coates (Acting)
 * 17 September 2016–present: Nicola Sullivan