Executive Assistant to the Archdeacon of the Isle of Wight

We are seeking a proactive and highly organised Executive Assistant to support the Archdeacon of the Isle of Wight in strengthening communication, coordination and relationships across the Archdeaconry. While the post includes some diary, correspondence and administrative support, its focus is to help the Archdeaconry function effectively across the Island by supporting parish-facing activity, clergy and church officer liaison, meetings, visitations, local processes and effective communication between the Archdeacon, parishes and diocesan colleagues.

The successful candidate will be confident working independently, able to build trusted relationships with a wide range of people, and comfortable representing the Archdeaconry in a professional, welcoming and discreet manner.

The Role

• Providing proactive executive, administrative and Archdeaconry coordination support to the Archdeacon of the Isle of Wight.
• Helping to coordinate the work of the Archdeaconry by supporting parish-facing activity, meetings, visitations, clergy processes and local initiatives.
• Acting as a key link between the Archdeacon, clergy, churchwardens, PCC officers, parish representatives, diocesan teams and external partners.
• Supporting communication across the Island, ensuring enquiries, information and actions are handled appropriately and followed through in a timely way.
• Preparing agendas, papers, reports, briefing notes and meeting records for Archdeaconry meetings and related activity.
• Maintaining accurate records and supporting diocesan and Archdeaconry processes, including those linked to clergy, parishes, buildings, governance and pastoral matters where required.
• Developing effective working relationships across the Island to support collaboration, local understanding and timely resolution of queries.
• Supporting arrangements for Archdeaconry governance, visitations, licensing, collation, installation or other clergy and parish-related processes where required.
• Undertaking diary, correspondence and appointment management where this supports the wider work of the Archdeaconry.
• Supporting the delivery of strategic priorities, local initiatives and operational improvements across the Archdeaconry.
• Helping to ensure the effective day-to-day functioning of the Archdeaconry office, including clear systems, good information flow and reliable follow-up.
• Identifying opportunities to improve processes, strengthen communication and support consistent ways of working across the Island.
• Handling confidential, pastoral or sensitive matters appropriately, in line with diocesan policies and safeguarding expectations.

About You

• Experience in a senior administrative, coordination, executive support, parish, governance or comparable role.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organisational skills, with the ability to coordinate people, information, meetings, actions and deadlines across a varied workload.
• The ability to manage competing priorities and work independently.
• High levels of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Excellent IT skills, including Microsoft Office 365 applications.
• A professional, welcoming and collaborative approach, with the confidence to build constructive relationships across parishes, clergy, diocesan teams and external contacts.
• The ability to handle confidential and sensitive information with discretion.
• An understanding of, and sympathy with, the mission and values of the Church of England, or a willingness to learn about diocesan structures, parish life and the practices of the Church of England.

What We Offer

• A supportive and collaborative working environment.
• Flexible and hybrid working opportunities where appropriate.
• Generous annual leave entitlement.
• Pension scheme.
• Opportunities for learning and professional development.
• The chance to contribute to the life and mission of the Church across the Isle of Wight.

Terms

• Hours: 28 hours per week (worked over 4 or 5 days by agreement)
• Salary: £28,400 per annum FTE (£22,720 actual salary for 28 hours per week)
• Location: George Street office/Newport office, with some travel around the Island and occasional attendance at diocesan meetings in Portsmouth.
• Contract: Permanent

Please note: Applicants do not need to live on the Isle of Wight to apply for this role. However, they will need to be able to travel to the Island as required for work, including to build and maintain effective relationships with clergy, parishes, church officers and other key contacts across the Archdeaconry.

Safer Recruitment

The Diocese of Portsmouth is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be required to undertake appropriate safeguarding training and a DBS check where applicable.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

The Diocese of Portsmouth is committed to creating and sustaining a diverse and inclusive workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates and are committed to ensuring equality of opportunity throughout the recruitment process. Appointments will be made on merit.