At a Glance
- Tasks: Support parishes in growth and mission through strategic planning and training.
- Company: Join a supportive team within the Diocese of Chichester.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, generous leave, and pension contributions.
- Other info: Dynamic role with travel opportunities and a focus on collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in local church communities and help them thrive.
- Qualifications: Degree-level qualifications or equivalent experience in church growth.
The predicted salary is between 41200 - 41200 € per year.
We are seeking an experienced and enthusiastic Parish Development Officer to join our Parish Support Team to play a key role in supporting parishes across the Diocese of Chichester to flourish in mission and ministry. 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 their 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 is a relational, outward-facing role that involves travel across the Diocese, varied project work, and the opportunity to make a tangible difference to parish life. The role is offered full time, and also open to applicants seeking a job share or clergy applicants interested in combining the role with a ministry post.
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
What we offer
- A salary of £41,200 per annum
- 28 days of annual leave, plus bank holidays and two privilege days per year
- Flexi-time and the opportunity to apply to use the DBF’s remote working policy to work from home for part of the week
- 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, and the ride to work scheme and development opportunities
You will bring
- 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
All post holders are expected to comply with the safeguarding policy. This post is subject to an Occupational Requirement under the Equality Act 2010 that the post holder be a practising Christian.
Parish Development Officer employer: Church of England
Join our dedicated team as a Parish Development Officer in the Diocese of Chichester, where you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on local church growth and renewal. We offer a supportive work culture that values collaboration and personal development, alongside competitive benefits such as flexible working arrangements, generous leave, and a robust pension scheme. This role not only allows you to engage deeply with parishes but also provides avenues for professional growth within a faith-driven community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Parish Development Officer
✨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. Personal connections can often lead to job openings that aren't advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the Diocese of Chichester and its parishes. Understand their mission and values so you can demonstrate how your experience aligns with their goals during the interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills in facilitating group discussions and training sessions. Bring examples of how you've successfully led churches through change, as this will resonate well with the role's requirements.
✨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 are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Parish Development Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for parish development shine through in your application. We want to see your heart for local church growth and renewal, so share personal experiences that highlight your commitment to mission and ministry.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. We’re looking for evidence of your successful experience in leading churches into growth and implementing Mission Action Plans.
Be Relational:Since this role is all about relationships, emphasise your interpersonal skills. We want to know how you’ve worked with clergy, PCCs, and volunteers in the past, so include examples that showcase your collaborative approach.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensure you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to make a difference in parish life.
How to prepare for a job interview at Church of England
✨Know Your Mission
Before the interview, take some time to understand the mission and vision of the Diocese of Chichester. Familiarise yourself with their current projects and challenges. This will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their goals and demonstrate your genuine interest in supporting parishes.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles where you've successfully led churches through growth or change. Be ready to discuss how you facilitated group discernment or developed Mission Action Plans. Concrete examples will make your experience more relatable and impactful.
✨Emphasise Relationship Building
Since this role is relational and outward-facing, highlight your interpersonal skills. Share stories that showcase your ability to work collaboratively with clergy, PCCs, and volunteers. Discuss how you've built trust and fostered effective communication in previous roles.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare a few insightful questions to ask during the interview. Inquire about the current challenges facing parishes or how they envision the role evolving. This shows your proactive approach and genuine interest in making a difference within the Diocese.
