Church relations officer jobs

This role is to support the Church of England's work in the House of Lords in relation to all matters of education policy. Working closely with the Bishop of Portsmouth (the Chair of the National Society for Education and Lead Bishop for Education) and a range of other Lords Spiritual, you will be providing advice, supporting policy articulation, maintaining links with MPs, peers and staff, and working with NSE senior staff to ensure effective communication of education policy.

The Church of England has a unique role in the education system, providing around 20% of all schools (around 4700 schools). Its national work is overseen by the National Society for Education (Church of England & Church in Wales), working closely in partnership with Diocesan Boards of Education, school and trust leaders, alongside strategic leaders in the FE and HE sectors.

The NSE is chaired by the Bishop of Portsmouth, who has also sat in the House of Lords since December 2025. He regularly speaks in debates and works across the House with a wide range of peers, also working very closely with ministers, particularly in the Department for Education. This role is to provide parliamentary and policy support to him and a range of other Lords Spiritual who will speak on education issues.

The role sits inside the NSE team, line managed by the Head of Education Policy, and then working closely with the wider team of other Parliamentary and Policy Researchers across the wider Church of England. It provides an excellent opportunity for someone looking to support the Church's work in education at the most strategic level.

The closing date for applications is 5pm on Monday 3rd August 2026.

Interviews will be held virtually on Thursday 6th August 2026.

• Supporting the Bishop of Portsmouth (Chair of the National Society for Education and Lead Bishop for Education), and a range of other Lords Spiritual speaking on education policy in the House of Lords
• Advising on and researching materials for questions, speeches and other interventions in the Lords. Monitoring and keeping the Bishops informed about relevant parliamentary developments and timetables.
• Liaising with MPs, Peers and their staff, Parliamentary officials, and others in and outside the NCIs on behalf of the Bishops.
• Drafting material for online and print publication about the Bishops' work, in close collaboration with communications officers in Church House and the Diocese of Portsmouth.
• Providing occasional research resource for the Bishops in their diocesan work, as and when required. This may involve researching and drafting talks, articles and lectures.
• Supporting the Head of Education Policy and Chief Education Officer in their wider policy-related responsibilities as and when required.
• Working with the wider Parliamentary Team to ensure that the Bishops are kept abreast of the wider activities of the Lords Spiritual and the Parliamentary Team

This list is not exhaustive and is intended to reflect your main tasks and areas of work. Changes may occur over time and you will be expected to agree any reasonable changes to your job description that are in line with the general nature of your post. You will be consulted about any changes to your job description before these are implemented.

The Parliamentary and Policy Researcher will be expected to regularly in London (at our office base - Church House, Westminster), and at the House of Lords. Flexibility in the working pattern will be required, due to the Bishops' duty weeks and other commitments in the Lords, as well as parliamentary sitting and recess dates.

The postholder will need to have access to the Parliamentary estate, so will be required to apply for a security pass sponsored by the Bishops, and will be expected to abide by the rules and codes set by Parliament that accompany the issuing of a pass. The postholder will also have access to the facilities offered to NCI staff, observing the responsibilities and protocols which apply to all staff of the NCIs.

ESSENTIAL

Skills/Aptitudes:

• Excellent communication skills, verbally and in writing.

• Proven ability in drafting briefing papers or press releases, bulletins or other accessible modes of communication

• Excellent organisational skills, including time management, diary management etc.

• Research skills, with the ability to gather information quickly and accurately and to produce content in forms suitable for both brief speeches and full-length addresses

• Ability to discern the impact of policies, legislation etc. on the Church of England, other churches, and other faith communities

Knowledge/Experience:

• Knowledge of the UK Parliament, current affairs and the making of Government policy

• A grasp of the key issues facing the Church of England in its public role today

• Some experience of organising events (receptions, seminars, meetings etc.)

Personal attributes:

• Enthusiasm, energy and imagination.

• Discretion and judgement in handling confidential or sensitive material

• A flexible, open and collaborative working style

• A willingness to work with and learn from senior colleagues, and people of differing political and theological persuasions

DESIRABLE

Knowledge/Experience:

• Knowledge of current trends in Education policy

• Some knowledge or experience of parliamentary processes, political parties, think tanks, lobby groups etc.

• Some knowledge of the structures of the Church of England, and Education landscape

Job Title: Digital Communications Officer

Responsible to: Senior Communications & Engagement Manager

Salary: £29,706 – £31,908 per annum 

Location: Head Office, 5 Trinity Street, London, SE1 1DB 

Hours of work: Full time - 35 hours per week (Minimum two days per week in the London office). Occasional weekend and evening work with time off in lieu (some domestic and international travel may be required) 

The package also includes: 

• 8% employer pension contribution

• 25 days annual leave, plus bank holidays and additional discretionary leave during the Christmas period 

• Season Ticket Loan 

About USPG 

USPG is the Anglican mission agency that partners churches and communities worldwide in God’s mission to enliven faith, strengthen relationships, unlock potential and champion justice. You can find out more about our work by visiting our website.

About the Role 

Reporting to the Senior Communications & Engagement Manager as part of a highly functioning and creative team, this vital role will work across all media and channels to raise the profile of USPG and its partners and their work: 

• Oversee the day-to-day running of our website and social media channels. 

• Liaise with colleagues and partners to gather information and use it to create engaging collateral which informs, inspires, and sometimes challenges. 

• Support the digital growth of USPG through SEO and Analytics

• Monthly digital and media reporting

About You  

You are an organised and digitally aware communications professional. You can take complex subjects and communicate about them in simple and effective ways that speak to specific audiences. You understand the importance of reporting on website and social media performance to understand USPG’s audience and to adjust and improve. You are comfortable working in a small and creative team and are confident speaking to the wider organisation. You can juggle numerous projects and deadlines at one time.

You will demonstrate considerable cross-cultural awareness and an ability to communicate in a way that is sensitive and appropriate. You demonstrate an aptitude for collaborative teamwork and the ability to work independently on your initiative. It is expected that the postholder will be inspired by the work of USPG and in agreement with its Christian ethos and that they will be comfortable writing in a way which reflects this.

This is an ideal opportunity for someone looking for an exciting and varied role within charity communications or a communications/marketing professional who wants to move into the charity sector. However, if you don’t necessarily fall into these categories, but have the right skills for this role, please get in touch.

How to apply: 

Please complete the application form and equal opportunities form and email us as indicated.
 

Closing Date: Wednesday 12 August 2026 by 9am.

Interview Date: Wednesday 19 August 2026 in London.

Salary: £28,150 (FTE £46,916)

Location: London Diocesan House, Causton Street.

Contract type:  21 hours per week, Permanent, Part time

Closing date: 09 August 2026

Interview date: We'll conduct interviews as suitable candidates apply and we're ready to hire if we find the right person before the job ad closes

Requirements: The postholder of this role does not require a DBS

The London Diocesan Fund (LDF) is seeking an Area Giving and Finance Adviser (Stepney) to play a key role within the Area Finance team, based at Causton Street.

Job Summary

The purpose of the Area Giving and Finance Adviser role is to provide comprehensive finance support to churches within the Stepney Area, aiding them in the development of their ministries, manage Common Fund giving and to support the Area Bishop’s staff team in the management of resources including monitoring clergy post numbers, curate funding, and other financial matters. As part of a small team of Area Giving and Finance Advisers, the role involves offering training, resources, and advice on parish financial management and administration, and advice on various giving methods, including online and contactless options. Additionally, the role entails promoting generous giving through training initiatives, facilitating the award of grants and loans to churches from Area funds, and fostering effective communication and relationship-building between the Area team, Finance team, and parish officers.

Job responsibilities

Financial support 

• Enable churches to develop their respective ministries, manage their finances effectively, and meet their statutory responsibilities. 
• Provide finance and other appropriate training, support, resources and advice to the clergy, PCCs and parish officers. 
• Assist the Bishop, Archdeacons and Area Deans in managing Common Fund giving by the churches in the Area. 
• Facilitate and monitor the award of grants and loans to churches from Area funds. 
• Support the Area Bishop’s staff team and Area Council in monitoring the use of Area resources, including post numbers, curate funding and other matters. 

Giving 

• Supporting parishes to encourage a culture of generosity and giving.
• Promote generous giving through training, preaching and providing resources to clergy and parish officers. 
• Support the introduction of different methods of giving, including online, contactless, and Parish Giving Scheme. 

Relationship management 

• Build relationships with, and promote effective communication between, the Area team, Finance team, parish officers and the other Area Finance Advisers.  Work with the National Giving Team on projects that support parish ministry. 

Other duties 

• The role will require regular evening and weekend working. 
• Complete other duties commensurate of the role.

Please refer to the attached Job Description for the full details on the main responsibilities.

Person Specification

Essential

• Experience of encouraging charitable giving.  
• Experience managing a wide variety of professional relationships.
• Educated to A Level or equivalent standard.
• IT proficiency (MS Office suite).
• Fluency in spoken English and ability to communicate clearly in English.
• Understanding of the ethos and mission of the Church of England, and of the role of parish clergy.
• Effective written and oral communication skills.
• Numerate and financially astute – comfortable working with financial data.
• Strong administrative skills, including use of Microsoft Office.
• Self-motivated, as work needs to be undertaken proactively and with limited supervision.
• Attention to detail – accurate and efficient.
• Strong interpersonal skills, including relationship building and discretion.
• Christian faith with empathy to the mission and values of the Church of England.
• Right to work in the UK.
• The person will not require a DBS check.

Desirable

• Experience of charity accounting (accounting qualifications are not a requirement).  
• Educated to degree level.

Please refer to the attached Job Description for the full details on Person Specification.

About the London Diocesan Fund

The London Diocesan Fund (LDF) is the employment body that serves and supports the Diocese of London and Church of England. The Diocese of London comprises of c400 parishes north of the River Thames and within the M25 motorway. 

The Church of England in London is growing, vibrant and at the heart of communities throughout the capital. At the London Diocesan Fund, we seek to do everything we can to support this mission and growth, using our resources to help our parishes and chaplains to serve over 4 million people.

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

The Diocese of London is committed to creating and sustaining a diverse and inclusive workforce which represents our context and wider community.

We are aware that those of Global Majority Heritage/United Kingdom Minority Ethnic (GMH/UKME), women, and disabled people are currently under-represented among our clergy and workforce, and we particularly encourage applications from those with the relevant skills and experience that will increase this representation.

Safeguarding

The Diocese of London is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults.

Benefits of working with us

The LDF offers a supportive working environment, opportunity for career development and the following financial benefits:

• Competitive remuneration package
• 27 annual leave days to rise to 30 after 5 years’ service, plus bank holidays
• 15% employer pension contribution and salary sacrifice available
• Death in service benefit x3 of basic gross salary
• Enhanced maternity leave of six months full pay, after 12 months of employment
• Season ticket loans for public transport
• Access to Benenden Health Insurance
• EAP counselling through Health Assured                            
• Up to £100 for eye test and contribution to spectacles                      
• Two additional paid days for community volunteering

To apply:

Submit your application and CV online via Pathways. Please refer to the person specification and JD when you’re answering the application questions.

For more details, please see the full Job Description and Person Specification or visit the LDF Careers Page.

The person appointed will be employed by the Cathedral Chapter and the Line Manager for this post will be the Canon Chancellor.

The Education Officer will work with the Canon Chancellor and the expert volunteers who support this department to develop, grow and deliver the schools and formal learning offers at the cathedral. In addition, they will work with others to develop the interpretation and activities for families and children, helping them to discover the cathedral and its work.

The post of Education Officer is located within Ripon Cathedral, which is a place of Christian worship and mission within the Church of England.  This is a creative and mission-led role, sitting at the heart of the cathedral’s commitment to education, outreach and discipleship.  The role requires a solid understanding of, and sympathy for the Christian faith. 

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES  

Education Programme Development

• To develop and grow the education programme in support of the cathedral’s strategic objectives.
• To grow income from school visits and projects.
• To contribute actively to maintaining a healthy safeguarding culture in the cathedral. 

Leadership and Management of Volunteers

Lead, recruit, manage and develop the expert team of volunteers, creating a working environment which fosters commitment, enthusiasm and confidence with a positive safeguarding culture at its heart.

• Lead by example and promote team-working across the department and with the wider cathedral staff team.
• Develop and maintain positive working relationships with all staff and volunteers to drive forward the delivery of the vision for the Cathedral. .

Formal Learning Offer

• Develop the formal learning offer at the cathedral to cover all ages and across the whole curriculum
• Create educational resources and activities aligned to the National Curriculum
• Work with partner organisations in the area to develop multi-site learning and visits
• Promote the offer to schools across the area, building up strong relationships with teachers and local networks, and act as primary contact for schools and groups.
• Work with the volunteers to deliver high quality school visits, workshops and educational activities
• Work positively and collaboratively with Chapter committees and working groups to develop the learning offer

Informal Learning Offer

• Liaise and work with the Cathedral’s Children and Families Officer to devise and deliver seasonal children and family activities during school holidays
• Assist in the development of children’s interpretation and the visitor offer for families

COMMON DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Health and Safety

Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, whilst at work the post-holder must take reasonable care for his/her own health and safety and that of any other person who may be affected by his/her acts or omissions.  In addition, the post-holder must co-operate with the Cathedral on health and safety and not interfere with or misuse anything provided for his/her health, safety and welfare. 

Confidentiality

The post-holder must comply with Ripon Cathedral’s policies and procedures regarding the sharing of confidential and personal data.

Safeguarding

The safeguarding and welfare of everyone who comes into contact with the cathedral is of the utmost importance to the Dean and Chapter.  All employees are expected to recognise the shared responsibility they hold and keep up-to-date with policies and procedures as they enact their role.  Employees are supported in this by the work of our dedicated safeguarding team.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusivity

Ripon Cathedral is committed to promoting a diverse, non-discriminatory and inclusive community that gives everyone an equal chance to learn, work and live free from discrimination, bias and prejudice. Our equality policy includes responsibility for all staff to eliminate unfair and unlawful discrimination, advance equality of opportunity for all and foster good relations.  

General

We expect all employees to be accountable for own development through the appraisal process, seeking out opportunities to learn new skills.

In addition, all employees are expected to work within the terms of their contract of employment and adhere to the Cathedral’s policies and practices.

Occasionally situations may arise that require the post holder to perform other duties and tasks as may be reasonably requested by the chapter of the Cathedral.  This role includes occasional evening and weekend working.

Job Title: Chief Operating Officer

Contract: Permanent

Salary: £65,000 per annum

Hours per week: 35 hours

Annual Leave: 25 days plus 8 bank holidays

Role Description

The COO is the Cathedral’s principal member of staff and has responsibility for the overall operational performance and administration of the organisation, its assets and its people. Appointed by the Chapter and accountable to them through the Dean, the COO works with the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) to develop and implement strategy and policy, ensure effective governance and compliance, manage the business functions of the Cathedral and monitor its overall progress and development.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Lead the development of the Cathedral’s overall strategy to reflect the Cathedral’s Vision and Values.
• Ensure the effective implementation of the Cathedral’s masterplan and successfully deliver outcomes through the effective performance management of goals and objectives.
• Secure financial sustainability, achieve growth and optimise the efficient use of resources through effective short, medium and long term planning.

Safeguarding

• Work closely with the Dean, the Cathedral Safeguarding Committee, Chapter Safeguarding Lead and the Safeguarding Officer to develop and deliver the Cathedral’s safeguarding strategy.
• Act as a role model in upholding safeguarding policies and embedding a healthy safeguarding culture across Cathedral life.
• Negotiate, implement and continually review the Service Level Agreement with the Diocesan Board of Finance and the Diocesan Safeguarding Officer.
• Ensure compliance with current safeguarding legislation and national guidance, fostering an environment where safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.

Staff and Volunteers

• Ensure recruitment, training and HR management of staff and volunteers adhere to the Safer Recruitment policies of the Church of England and meet the needs of the Cathedral.
• Develop a workplace culture and ethos that reflects the Cathedral’s values and enables and empowers staff and volunteers.
• Act as a role model for effective people management, supporting, developing, and constructively challenging others while encouraging continuous professional development.
• Foster a collegiate, open, and collaborative environment across the Cathedral.
• Champion diversity and inclusivity within the Cathedral community, providing opportunity and support for all.

Cathedral Compliance and Operational Management

• Ensure the effective running and forward planning of Chapter and other governance committees, including compliance with the Constitution and Statutes.
• Ensure trustees and others in governance positions are properly inducted and trained including in safeguarding.
• Ensure that the Cathedral meets all legislative regulations and complies with ecclesiastical and charity laws.
• Be accountable for reporting to the Charity Commission and Companies House.
• Work with the Chief Finance Officer to ensure that the strategic plan is supported by a robust, multi-year financial plan aligned with long-term objectives.
• Work with the Visitor Experience Manager to increase income generation, establishing a growth plan with the Abbey of St Edmund, Reborn Project.
• Work with the Architect and Facilities Manager to ensure the Cathedral meets its statutory and legal obligations relating to heritage, ecclesiastical and listed buildings in its care.
• Work with the Facilities Manager to ensure the Cathedral meets its statutory and legal requirements in relation to its properties and responsibilities as a landlord.
• Ensure effective management of Health and Safety across the Cathedral ensuring compliance with statutory legislation and best practice; ensure emergency procedures are up to date.
• Ensure all data is protected and processed in full compliance with GDPR legislation.
• Ensure that the Cathedral is complies with all legal requirements, interpreting and communicating changes in compliance to the Chapter and Cathedral staff.
• Support the Church of England’s Net Zero targets and ensure the Cathedral has a plan for reducing carbon emissions; adhering to statutory requirements relating to Net Zero.
• Ensure suitable IT provision is in place, to support Cathedral operations, is secure and regularly review software and hardware requirements.
• Work with the Marketing & Communications Manager to oversee public relations, ensuring appropriate management of reputation, branding, and media activities; act as Cathedral spokesperson as appropriate.
• Review working methods, office accommodation and administration support to ensure arrangements are fit for purpose.
• Promote open and transparent ways of working throughout the administration, with effective communication and engagement at all levels.
• Oversee the effective planning and management of key projects and the implementation of delivery programmes to achieve operational and strategic objectives.
• Support the Dean in managing relationships with the 1327 Club.
• Ensure the effective management, use and future development of all the Cathedral’s assets.
• Be responsible for contingency planning, including the management of insurance, disaster recovery and salvage planning and oversee the Cathedral’s risk register.
• Develop for approval, maintain and regularly review policy and procedure documents of Chapter and ensuring they are embedded across the organisation.
• Chair staff and management meetings.
• Manage the business operations of the Cathedral in accordance with the values, standards and budgets agreed by Chapter.
• Lead, manage, motivate and empower staff and volunteer teams through effective structures, training and professional relationships.

Direct Reports

• Chief Finance Officer
• Cathedral Safeguarding Officer
• Human Resources Officer
• Visitor Experience Manager
• Volunteer Manager
• Marketing and Communications Manager
• Facilities Manager
• Shop Manager
• Pilgrims’ Kitchen Manager

Attendance Required at:

• Chapter Meetings
• Finance Committee
• Nominations Committee
• Risk, Audit and Review Committee
• Safeguarding Committee
• Health and Safety Committee
• Information Protection Group
• The Guild of St Edmund Committee
• Forum
• Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM)
• Enterprises Ltd Meetings
• Eco St Eds Committee
• Abbey of St Edmund, Reborn CIO
• Cathedral Administration and Finance
• Association (CAFA)conferences

Person Specification

Essential Qualities

• A proven track record of strategic leadership with successful
• delivery of projects and outcomes within an organisation of a similar size and complexity.
• Experience of working at board level or closely with boards.
• Significant leadership capability, with the ability to influence, inspire, and engage the Cathedral Community and external stakeholders.
• An empowering management style that fosters teamwork, trust and collaboration, with a strong understanding of HR best practice.
• Successful experience of leading significant change and of fostering a culture of continuous improvement and development within a complex organisational environment.
• Proven experience in managing operational performance within tight financial constraints in a complex, multi-faceted environment.
• Effective delivery of financial strategy and budget management, demonstrating strong commercial acumen.
• An understanding of safeguarding and the critical role it plays in protecting all people.

Desirable Qualities

• Previous experience as a COO or at a similar senior leadership level.
• An understanding of the complexities in managing wide-ranging cathedral operations or previous experience within a Church of England setting.
• A good understanding of best practice in charity governance.
• Experience of managing a heritage site.
• Experience working with volunteers.
• Experience in safeguarding best practice.

Knowledge and skills

• Ability to understand complex operational issues and develop creative and innovative solutions.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the confidence to share information effectively at all levels internally and externally.
• Commitment to working efficiently and effectively, utilising technology and software as appropriate.
• Ability to develop and encourage a strong team ethos among staff and volunteers.
• Strong analytical skills and sound judgment.
• Experience of managing budgets.
• Well-developed interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage comfortably with all users of the Cathedral.

Other criteria

• Empathy with the beliefs and ethos of the Christian faith.
• Comfortable working within a team of staff and clergy with a range of different skills and gifts, understanding their different roles and working patterns.
• Commitment to the Cathedral’s purpose and vision, and to taking an active role in the Cathedral’s community, mission and outreach.
• A satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is required for this post. The appointment is subject to a six-month probation period.

Additional Information

The role requires the post-holder to work occasional weekends, evenings and non-working days, as required for which time off in lieu will be given. The post-holder will undertake such other duties as may reasonably be expected. This document is accurate at time of publication but is subject to regular review and may change in line with the Cathedral’s requirements.

Closing Date: 9.00 am Monday 3 July 2026

Interviews: Wednesday 12 August 2026

Join the Cardinal Hume Centre and use your estates expertise to help create a safe, welcoming and well-managed environment for young people, children and families facing homelessness and poverty. This is a rare opportunity to lead both the long-term stewardship of a significant Central London site and the day-to-day delivery of facilities, compliance and improvement works that directly support life-changing services.

Working closely with the CEO, Head of HR and Operations and Board of Trustees, you will shape future plans for the Centre’s estate while ensuring the building remains safe, compliant, efficient and fit for purpose. If you are a strategic and practical estates professional who wants their work to make a tangible social impact, we would like to hear from you.

What you’ll do

· Lead long-term estate planning, capital works and building improvements – you’ll support our master planning for the site

· Oversee day-to-day maintenance, facilities management and contractor performance to keep the Centre running effectively

· Take organisational responsibility for health and safety, fire safety and statutory compliance

· Manage budgets, procurement and reporting, delivering value for money while supporting excellent services

· Support sustainability and environmental improvements that strengthen the Centre for the future

What we’re looking for

· A skilled estates, facilities or property professional with strong experience in building compliance, maintenance and project delivery

· A confident communicator who can work effectively with senior leaders, trustees, contractors and colleagues across the organisation

· Someone who can balance strategic thinking with hands-on operational oversight

· A values-led individual who is motivated by the opportunity to support a charity tackling youth and family homelessness