At a Glance
- Tasks: Help parishes grow and implement their vision through strategic support and training.
- Company: Join a supportive Diocese dedicated to community and church growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexi-time, 28 days leave, and a generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Flexible working options and opportunities for personal development await you.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in local communities while working with passionate teams.
- Qualifications: Experience in church growth and strong communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 41200 - 41200 £ per year.
Location: Hove
Job Type: Permanent
Salary: £41,200 per annum
Hours: 37.5 hours per week (flexi time available)
Contract: Permanent
Closing Date: 7th June 2026
Interview Date: 19th June 2026 in Hove
The role is offered full time and is also open to applicants seeking a job share or clergy applicants interested in combining the role with a ministry post.
About the Role
Working closely with clergy, PCCs and parish leadership teams, you will help parishes discern, develop and implement their vision and strategic direction. You will support cultural change, encourage growth and renewal, and enable churches to become more effective and confident in their mission within local contexts. You will be a practising Christian with a heart for local church growth and renewal, and with proven experience of supporting churches through change. This relational, outward-facing role involves travel across the Diocese, varied project work, and the opportunity to make a tangible difference to parish life.
Key Responsibilities
- Work with parishes, benefices and deaneries to develop vision, strategy and Mission Action Plans
- Facilitate PCC away days, visioning processes and group discernment
- Support churches to grow in confidence, effectiveness and collaboration in mission and ministry
- Provide practical support around leadership, team dynamics, communication and conflict resolution
- Work closely with the Archdeacons to support parishes during periods of vacancy
- Develop and deliver parish development training and contribute to diocesan initiatives
- Advise parishes on resourcing mission, including people and finances
About You
- Relevant degree-level qualifications or equivalent experience
- Successful experience of leading a church into growth and implementing Mission Action Plans
- Experience of training, facilitation or mentoring individuals and groups
- Strong interpersonal, communication and organisational skills
- Confidence working with clergy, PCCs and volunteers
- A collaborative, reflective and resilient approach
- A full driving licence and access to a car
This post is subject to an Occupational Requirement under the Equality Act 2010 that the post holder be a practising Christian.
About the Organisation
The vision of the Diocese is to help people to know, love and follow Jesus. Based in Hove and serving the people of Sussex across more than 360 parishes and 154 church schools and the wider community, this role supports the ethos, aims and objectives of the Diocese and the Church of England. As an employer, and as a team, the mutual values at work are Respectful, Professional, Flexible and Supportive.
What is on offer
- Flexi-time and the opportunity to apply to use the DBF’s remote working policy to work from home for part of the week
- 28 days of annual leave, plus bank holidays and two privilege days per year
- Membership of the Church Worker’s Pension Scheme with a 15.1% employer contribution and an employee contribution between 0-6%
- Employee Assistance Programme with access to GP appointments, counselling and financial and legal support
- Free parking, ride to work scheme and development opportunities
Our client is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. All post holders are expected to share this commitment and to comply with the relevant safeguarding policy.
Parish Development Officer in Hove employer: Carer Support Wiltshire
The Diocese of Sussex is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and flexible work environment in Hove that prioritises the growth and development of its employees. With a strong commitment to fostering a culture of respect and collaboration, the organisation provides generous benefits including 28 days of annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and opportunities for professional development, making it an ideal place for those passionate about church growth and community impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Parish Development Officer in Hove
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the church community and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have a lead or be able to put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the Diocese and its parishes, and think about how your experience aligns with their mission. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've supported churches through change.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion! When you get the chance to meet with clergy or PCCs, let your enthusiasm for local church growth shine through. They want to see that you genuinely care about making a difference.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and contributing to the mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Parish Development Officer in Hove
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific skills and experiences that match the Parish Development Officer role. Highlight your experience with church growth and strategic planning, as this will show us you understand what we're looking for.
Show Your Passion:We want to see your enthusiasm for local church growth and renewal. Share personal stories or experiences that demonstrate your commitment to the mission and values of the Diocese. This will help us connect with you on a deeper level.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate well-structured applications that make it easy for us to see your qualifications and fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! This ensures we receive all the necessary information and helps streamline the process. Plus, it shows us you're serious about joining our team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Carer Support Wiltshire
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the role of a Parish Development Officer inside out. Familiarise yourself with the Diocese's vision and how your experience aligns with their goals. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've supported churches through change and growth.
✨Show Your Passion
As a practising Christian, let your passion for local church growth shine through. Share personal stories that highlight your commitment to the mission and how you've made a tangible difference in previous roles. This will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about how you'd handle various situations, like facilitating PCC away days or supporting parishes during vacancies. Think of real-life scenarios where you've successfully navigated challenges and be ready to share those experiences.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few insightful questions prepared. Inquire about the current challenges facing the Diocese or how they envision the role evolving. This shows your genuine interest and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.
