Dac secretary & assistant to mission & pastoral officer

Role Summary

We are seeking a highly organised and proactive DAC Secretary and Assistant to the Mission & Pastoral Officer to provide professional coordination and administrative support for the work of the Diocesan Advisory Committee (DAC) and the Diocese of Liverpool’s closed church buildings processes. The role is key to ensuring the smooth, efficient, and compliant operation of DAC procedures, while supporting parishes in the care, development, and sustainable use of church buildings and churchyards.

Working closely with senior diocesan staff, Archdeacons, and national Church of England bodies, the postholder will act as a primary point of contact for parishes, clergy, and external stakeholders. They will facilitate faculty processes, manage communications and records, and provide guidance on heritage, legal, and planning matters. Through strong organisational skills and a proactive approach, the role supports the Diocese of Liverpool’s commitment to responsible stewardship, effective mission, and long-term sustainability.

The main purpose of the role:

1. To coordinate and support the effective operation of the DAC, including meetings, agendas, and documentation.
2. To provide clear, consistent, and timely guidance to parishes and stakeholders on faculty applications and processes.
3. To support the stewardship and compliance of church buildings, ensuring alignment with legal, heritage, and diocesan requirements.
4. To assist in the administration of closed church buildings, supporting the work of the Mission & Pastoral function.

Duties and Responsibilities

Key responsibilities and tasks include:

1. DAC Coordination & Committee Management
   • Coordinate the overall operation of the Diocesan Advisory Committee and its subcommittees
   • Prepare agendas, reports, and papers for meetings
   • Attend meetings, take minutes, and communicate decisions and advice
   • Maintain records of DAC business, including the faculty register
   • Manage conflicts of interest and ensure governance standards are met
   • Circulate agendas, minutes, and documentation to relevant stakeholders
   • Represent the DAC at hearings, including consistory court when required
2. Faculty Process & Advisory Support
   • Act as the first point of contact for all faculty-related enquiries
   • Provide guidance on the care and maintenance of church buildings and churchyards
   • Support clergy, PCCs, and parish officers in navigating the faculty system
   • Assist with applications and documentation via the Online Faculty System
   • Manage expectations regarding processes, requirements, and timescales
   • Work closely with Archdeacons on faculty matters and permissions
3. Stakeholder Engagement & Communication
   • Build effective relationships with parishes, clergy, architects, surveyors, and local authorities
   • To coordinate education within the diocese of the care and development of church buildings
   • Liaise with national bodies such as the Church Buildings Council and Historic England-
   • Collaborate with internal diocesan teams, including Net Zero and Mission & Pastoral
   • Deliver guidance and support to new incumbents and parish representatives
   • To attend the annual meeting for DAC Secretaries and Chairs organised by the Church Buildings Council
4. Church Buildings Development & Stewardship
   • Support parishes in developing proposals for building changes and improvements
   • Promote sustainable, accessible, and mission-aligned use of church buildings
   • Maintain awareness of planning regulations and conservation requirements
   • Encourage best practice in building care, sustainability, and accessibility
   • To receive copies of Quinquennial inspection reports and to work with the Archdeacon in ensuring that the recommended works are effected
5. Administration, Data & Systems
   • Maintain accurate records for church buildings, applications, and inspections
   • Ensure documentation is up to date, accessible, and compliant
   • To maintain a register of architects and surveyors approved to undertake quninquennial inspection reports in the diocese
   • Use digital systems (, Online Faculty System) effectively
6. Mission & Pastoral Support (Closed Churches)
   • Support the Closed Church Buildings (Uses and Disposals) sub-committee
   • Prepare agendas and minutes for meetings
   • Assist with administration of closed church buildings
   • Facilitate access for inspections and works, including liaising with stakeholders
   • Gather and manage utility and property-related information
7. Compliance & Governance
   • Ensure legal and procedural compliance under ecclesiastical legislation
   • Maintain indemnity insurance arrangements for DAC members
   • Support governance processes, reporting, and audits
   • Keep informed of relevant legislation, policies, and sector developments

This role will form an integral part of the Property & Buildings Team, providing support to the Team and parishes and undertaking responsibilities as otherwise directed.