At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic programmes to help churches and communities thrive across Sussex.
- Company: Join a faith-based organisation dedicated to making a positive impact.
- Benefits: Enjoy 28 days annual leave, flexible working, and a generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Opportunity for personal growth and to make a meaningful difference.
- Why this job: Shape the future of the Church while inspiring others in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in leading complex programmes and engaging diverse stakeholders.
Help shape the future of the Church across Sussex. We are seeking an experienced strategic leader to oversee an ambitious portfolio of programmes designed to help churches and communities flourish and grow.
Location: Hove/Hybrid
Salary: £61,149 per annum
Contract: Fixed term until 31 December 2030, with the possibility of extension
Closing Date: 11 October 2026
Interview Date: Hove on 30 October 2026
About the Role
Working closely with the Diocesan Secretary, Bishops, Archdeacons and other senior leaders, you will lead the delivery and continued development of the Diocesan Growth Strategy. You will provide strategic oversight of major programmes and projects with a combined budget exceeding £10 million. This includes leading a multidisciplinary team, strengthening programme governance and ensuring investment delivers measurable mission impact.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading the delivery and development of a portfolio of strategic programmes and projects
- Translating diocesan priorities into achievable plans and measurable outcomes
- Overseeing programme governance, performance reporting, risk management and evaluation
- Managing programme budgets, resources and delivery
- Leading, supporting and developing the Strategic Programmes team
- Building effective relationships with parishes, clergy, diocesan boards, senior leaders and national church partners
- Providing clear analysis, reports and recommendations to support strategic decision-making
About You
You will be a wise, experienced and collaborative leader who can work strategically within a complex, faith-based organisation. You will have:
- Significant experience of leading large and complex programmes
- Experience of working with a diverse range of stakeholders
- Strong engagement and influencing skills at all levels
- Experience of managing budgets, resources and programme performance
- Excellent analytical, communication and report-writing skills
- The ability to turn strategic priorities into practical plans
- The confidence and judgement to work effectively with senior leaders
- The enthusiasm and self-motivation to lead and inspire others
A Genuine Occupational Requirement applies under paragraph 1 of Schedule 9 of the Equality Act 2010, and the successful candidate must 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 is a great role for someone who 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 to be Respectful, Professional, Flexible and Supportive.
What is on offer:
- 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 and 6%
- Employee Assistance Programme with access to GP appointments, counselling and financial and legal support
- Flexible working, free parking, a 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 comply with the relevant safeguarding policy. This role is subject to an Enhanced DBS check and completion of the Church of England Confidential Declaration Form.
Head of Strategic Programmes in Hove employer: Diocese of Chichester
The Diocese offers a fulfilling opportunity for an Operations Manager to contribute to its mission in a supportive and flexible work environment located in Hove. With a strong emphasis on respect, professionalism, and employee development, the Diocese provides generous benefits including 28 days of annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and access to an Employee Assistance Programme. This role not only allows for meaningful engagement with the community but also fosters personal and professional growth within a vibrant team dedicated to making a positive impact.
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We think you need these skills to ace Head of Strategic Programmes in Hove
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✨Master the Case Study Game
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