Head of governance and secretariat

This is an exciting opportunity to work at the heart of one of the largest Church of England dioceses, working closely with an experienced and committed Diocesan Secretary as a trusted advisor to a small senior team.   This is a varied, high‑impact role with significant scope for professional growth.

 The role blends strategy, operations and governance and is ideal for someone who thrives on complexity and likes getting things done. You will be a trusted adviser and sounding board, offering challenge, perspective, and solutions. You will be expert at developing and maintaining excellent relationships with a wide range of people including trustees, staff and senior clergy.

 The Diocese of Southwark is committed to becoming a truly anti-racist organisation and to increasing our diversity at all levels. We especially welcome applications from those with Global Majority Heritage,  those with disabilities and other protected characteristics. 

Job Purpose

To ensure the smooth functioning of the central diocesan office in particular by leading on governance in the Diocesan Board of Finance, co-ordinating activities and managing the day-to-day responsibilities of the Diocesan Secretary’s role as Company Secretary. 

 This will involve a range of responsibilities including:

•  Leading on all elements of governance and charity law compliance 
•  Leading the Health and Safety and facilities management in the Diocesan Offices, including the line management of staff.
•  Co-ordinating, preparing planning and follow up for a range of meetings associated with the governance of the diocese. This includes drafting agendas, preparing papers, taking minutes of meetings and following up the actions
•  Supporting the Diocesan Secretary in   all other aspects of  synodical and committee management, including overseeing elections and the electoral process for Diocesan Synod and Deanery Synods
• Acting as a point of contact and expertise for Parishes, Deanery Secretaries and  Deanery Lay Chairs including:

The Person

You should have significant experience in a governance or secretariat role, preferably in a charity and ideally in the Church of England.  Proven ability to work closely with senior leaders, ideally at CEO or Board level is essential, as is the experience of leading a small team to deliver well under pressure.  You should have a strong understanding of the charity sector and ideally of Church of England governance

As a key contact for people in the Diocese, you should have outstanding communication skills: written, verbal, and interpersonal, combined with strong organisational and project management skills.  You will need to be comfortable switching between high level strategy and hands on delivery, with the ability to influence without authority and navigate sensitive issues with discretion. The role is challenging and involves some evening and weekend working for which time off in lieu is given.