At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Bishop with administrative and pastoral tasks while managing key projects.
- Company: Join the Diocese of Exeter and be part of a vibrant community.
- Benefits: Free housing, removal expenses covered, and a resettlement grant.
- Other info: Participate in worship and enjoy excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact in the Church and society while working closely with the Bishop.
- Qualifications: Strong organisational skills and a passion for community service.
Key aspects of the role include:
- Supporting the Bishop in his diocesan, civic and national responsibilities.
- Assisting the Bishop with administrative, pastoral and practical tasks across the Diocese.
- Analysing, reflecting upon and briefing the Bishop on the theological, policy and procedural implications of a wide range of issues facing the Church and wider society.
- Managing specific issues and projects on behalf of the Bishop.
- Supporting the Bishop in his statutory roles and obligations.
- Contributing to the overall vision and strategy of the diocese by participating in Bishop's Staff meetings and the Bishop's Strategy Group, serving as a trusted advisor to the Bishop and other senior staff.
- Leading the Bishop's Office Team, overseeing the overall operational plan for the office and line managing the Bishop's Administrator and Hospitality Co-ordinator.
The Chaplain will be a key member of the Bishop's Personal Staff which includes the Bishop's PA, the Bishop's Administrator and Hospitality Co-ordinator, the Palace Gardener and a part-time Driver. The Bishop's Office is located in the Gatehouse to the Bishop's Palace in central Exeter. The Bishop's Administrator and Hospitality Co-ordinator provides administrative support to the Chaplain.
The role demands a time commitment comparable to that of a parish priest. Generally, the Bishop's Chaplain will be expected to participate in morning and evening worship and maintain regular office hours from 9.00am to 5.00pm with a break for lunch. Some evening commitments may be required. The designated rest day is usually Saturday, though there may be occasional Saturday duties, in which case an alternative day off can be arranged. It is crucial that the Bishop's Chaplain is typically available when the Bishop is in the office, given the demands on the Bishop's diary.
Housing will be provided at no cost including exemptions from rent, council tax and water rates, located a short distance from the Bishop's Office. The Bishop's Chaplain will occupy this accommodation under a licence from its owners, the Diocesan Board of Finance. Additionally, removal expenses will be covered, along with a resettlement grant currently set at £2867. Permission may be granted to a Chaplain to live in his or her own property; however, if this is the preferred option, no housing allowance is available.
Closing date is 29 June 2026. Interviews are 27 and 28 July 2026.
Bishop's Chaplain in the Diocese of Exeter employer: Church of England
The Diocese of Exeter offers a unique and fulfilling opportunity for the Bishop's Chaplain to support the Bishop in a vibrant and historic setting. With a strong emphasis on community, spiritual growth, and collaboration, employees benefit from a supportive work culture that values their contributions and encourages professional development. The provision of housing at no cost, along with removal expenses and a resettlement grant, further enhances the appeal of this role, making it an excellent choice for those seeking meaningful employment within the Church.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Bishop's Chaplain in the Diocese of Exeter
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the Diocese of Exeter or related circles. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that a job description just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into the Bishop's vision and current projects. Show us you’re not just a candidate, but someone who’s genuinely invested in the diocese's mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pastoral skills! Be ready to discuss how you would support the Bishop in various responsibilities. We want to see your approach to real-life scenarios that might come up.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step.
We think you need these skills to ace Bishop's Chaplain in the Diocese of Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through. We want to see how much you care about supporting the Bishop and contributing to the diocese's vision. Share personal experiences that highlight your commitment to the Church and community.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. We’re looking for candidates who can demonstrate their ability to manage projects and support the Bishop effectively, so be clear about how your background aligns with these needs.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and long-winded explanations. Use bullet points where necessary to make it easy for us to see your qualifications and experiences at a glance.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! This ensures that we receive all the necessary information and helps us keep track of your application. Plus, it’s the best way to stay updated on the process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Church of England
✨Know the Bishop's Vision
Before your interview, take some time to understand the Bishop's vision and strategy for the Diocese of Exeter. Familiarise yourself with recent initiatives and challenges the Church is facing. This will help you articulate how your skills can support the Bishop in his responsibilities.
✨Demonstrate Your Pastoral Skills
As a Bishop's Chaplain, pastoral care is key. Be prepared to share specific examples from your experience where you've provided support or guidance in a community setting. Highlight your ability to manage sensitive issues and your approach to fostering relationships within the Church.
✨Showcase Your Administrative Expertise
The role involves significant administrative tasks, so be ready to discuss your organisational skills. Bring examples of how you've successfully managed projects or teams in the past. Emphasise your ability to analyse complex information and provide clear briefings, as this will be crucial in supporting the Bishop.
✨Engage with Theological Discussions
Prepare to engage in discussions about theological and policy implications relevant to the Church. Brush up on current issues facing the Church and society, and be ready to share your insights. This will demonstrate your analytical skills and your readiness to contribute meaningfully to the Bishop's work.
