At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Bishop with various responsibilities and manage key projects.
- Company: Diocese of Exeter, a vibrant community focused on faith and service.
- Benefits: Free housing, removal expenses covered, and a resettlement grant.
- Other info: Participate in worship and enjoy a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact in the Church and society while working closely with the Bishop.
- Qualifications: Strong administrative skills and a passion for community service.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
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 (one role).
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 meaningful role within the community. With a strong emphasis on collaboration, spiritual growth, and pastoral care, employees benefit from a supportive work culture that values their contributions and encourages professional development. The provision of housing at no cost, along with financial support for relocation, makes this position particularly attractive for those seeking a rewarding career in a historic and picturesque location.
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. Attend events, join discussions, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have a lead on the Bishop's Chaplain role!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the current issues facing the Church and the Diocese. Be ready to discuss how you can support the Bishop with practical solutions and insights. Show them you’re not just a candidate, but a valuable asset!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pastoral skills! Since the role involves supporting the Bishop in various responsibilities, think about scenarios where you can demonstrate your ability to manage projects and provide sound advice. Role-play with a friend if you need to!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Bishop's Chaplain in the Diocese of Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know the Role Inside Out:Before you start writing, make sure you really understand what the Bishop's Chaplain role involves. Dive into the job description and highlight key responsibilities that resonate with your experience. This will help us see how you fit into the team!
Be Personal and Authentic:When you're crafting your application, let your personality shine through! Share your passion for supporting the Bishop and the Church, and don’t be afraid to include personal anecdotes that showcase your skills and experiences. We love a good story!
Tailor Your Application:Generic applications are a no-go! Make sure to tailor your application specifically for this role. Use the language from the job description and align your skills with the tasks mentioned. This shows us you’re genuinely interested and have put in the effort.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss any important updates. Plus, it’s super straightforward – just follow the prompts!
How to prepare for a job interview at Church of England
✨Know the Bishop's Vision
Familiarise yourself with the Bishop's vision and strategy for the Diocese of Exeter. Understanding the key priorities and challenges will help you articulate how your skills and experiences align with the role, making you a more compelling candidate.
✨Demonstrate Pastoral Insight
Be prepared to discuss your understanding of pastoral care and how it applies to the responsibilities of the Bishop's Chaplain. Share specific examples from your experience that showcase your ability to support both the Bishop and the wider community effectively.
✨Showcase Your Administrative Skills
Since the role involves significant administrative tasks, highlight your organisational skills and any relevant experience managing projects or teams. Bring examples of how you've successfully led initiatives or improved processes in previous roles.
✨Engage with Theological Issues
The role requires analysing theological and policy implications. Brush up on current issues facing the Church and society, and be ready to discuss your thoughts on these topics. This will demonstrate your analytical skills and commitment to the Church's mission.
