TheDean of Southwell is the head (primus inter pares – first among equals) and chair of the chapter of canons, the ruling body ofSouthwell Minster. The dean and chapter are based at theCathedral and Parish Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary inSouthwell, Nottinghamshire. Before 2000 the post was designated as aprovost: the title was then the equivalent ofdean (the title used at mostEnglish cathedrals) where the cathedral was also a parish church. The cathedral is the mother church of theDiocese of Southwell and Nottingham and seat of theBishop of Southwell and Nottingham. The current interim Dean is The Revd Canon Dr Neil Evans, withStephen Evans announced as dean from April 2026.