At a Glance
- Tasks: Support parishes in growth and mission through strategic planning and training.
- Company: Join a vibrant Diocese dedicated to community and church development.
- Benefits: Flexi-time, 28 days leave, pension scheme, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible working options and a supportive team culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in local communities while working with passionate individuals.
- Qualifications: Experience in church growth and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 41200 - 41200 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced and enthusiastic Parish Development Officer to join the Parish Support Team and play a key role in supporting parishes across the Diocese to flourish in mission and ministry. 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.
Position: Parish Development Officer
Location: Hove/Hybrid
Salary: £41,200 per annum
Hours: 37.5 hour per week (flexi time available)
Contract: Permanent
Closing Date: 7th June 2026.
Interview Date: Hove on 19th June 2026
About the Role
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.
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
About You
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
- A full driving licence and access to a car
This post is subject to an Occupational Requirement under the Equality Act 2010 that the post holder 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:
- Flexi-time and the opportunity to apply to use the DBF’s remote working policy to work from home for part of the week.
- 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 0-6%.
- 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.
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 to comply with the relevant safeguarding policy.
Church Buildings Team Leader employer: Premier Christian Communications Ltd
The Diocese of Sussex offers a supportive and flexible work environment for the Church Buildings Team Leader, where mutual respect and professionalism are at the core of our values. With opportunities for personal and professional growth, including training and development, employees enjoy a generous benefits package that includes 28 days of annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and the option for hybrid working. Join us in making a meaningful impact on local parishes and communities while being part of a dedicated team committed to fostering church growth and renewal.
Contact Details:
Premier Christian Communications Ltd Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Church Buildings Team Leader
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research the Diocese and its values. When you understand their mission, you can tailor your conversations during interviews to show how you align with their goals.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees on LinkedIn. They can give you insider tips about the role and the team culture, which can be super helpful when you're in the interview hot seat.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to church growth and community engagement. Role-play with a friend or use our resources to boost your confidence before the big day.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity. It shows your enthusiasm and keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Church Buildings Team Leader
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Church Buildings Team Leader role. Highlight any relevant experience in church growth, leadership, and community engagement to show us you're the right fit.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share your passion for local church growth and renewal, and explain how your background makes you an ideal candidate. We want to see your personality and enthusiasm come through!
Showcase Your Experience:When detailing your experience, focus on specific examples where you've successfully led projects or initiatives in a church setting. This will help us understand how you can contribute to our mission and support parishes effectively.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates!
How to prepare for a job interview at Premier Christian Communications Ltd
✨Know Your Mission
Before the interview, take some time to understand the mission and vision of the Diocese. Familiarise yourself with their values and how they align with your own beliefs and experiences. This will help you articulate how you can contribute to their goals during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles where you've successfully led churches through growth or change. Highlight your experience in developing Mission Action Plans and facilitating group discernment. This will demonstrate your capability and confidence in handling the responsibilities of the role.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Remember, this is a relational role! Be prepared to engage with the interviewers by asking insightful questions about their current challenges and initiatives. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if the role is the right fit for you.
✨Demonstrate Flexibility and Support
Since the role involves working closely with various stakeholders, emphasise your collaborative approach and adaptability. Share instances where you've supported teams or individuals through change, showcasing your ability to be both flexible and supportive in a dynamic environment.
