Church Buildings Team Leader in Hove

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Church Buildings Team Leader to lead our Church Buildings team and play a key role in supporting parishes, clergy and diocesan governance structures in the care, repair and development of the Diocese of Chichester’s significant church buildings estate. The Diocese is responsible for around 450 church buildings, of which 181 are Grade I listed, 93 are Grade II*, and 99 are Grade II. This is a portfolio of exceptional historic, architectural and community value, presenting both exciting opportunities and complex challenges.

Reporting to the Property Director, you will lead a skilled professional team and provide high-quality advice on church buildings, churchyards, faculty processes, and (subject to experience and training) mission and pastoral reorganisation. You will act as Secretary to the Diocesan Advisory Committee (DAC), working closely with clergy, PCCs, archdeacons, external advisers and diocesan colleagues. The role will involve travel across the Diocese, with some evening and occasional weekend working (time off in lieu provided).

Key responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Church Buildings team, including performance management and budgeting
• Support and advise the Diocesan Advisory Committee for the Care of Churches
• Provide expert guidance to parishes and clergy on the care, repair and improvement of church buildings and their contents
• Oversee faculty applications and permissions processes
• Build strong, constructive relationships with stakeholders across the Diocese and beyond
• Contribute to training events, communications and wider diocesan initiatives
• Depending on your experience, you will support mission and pastoral reorganisation and work relating to closed churches, with scope for training and phased responsibility of these aspects of the role

About You

You will bring substantial experience in the care or management of historic or ecclesiastical buildings, along with strong leadership skills and a collaborative approach. A degree (or equivalent experience) in a relevant field such as heritage management, architecture, surveying or building conservation. You have a strong understanding of heritage legislation, permissions frameworks and national policy relating to church buildings. Experience working with clergy, PCCs, volunteers or comparable stakeholder groups. Proven line management experience. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. An ability to interpret legislation and provide clear, practical advice. Affiliate membership (or above) of the IHBC and familiarity with the Faculty Jurisdiction Rules are desirable, as is experience of presentation and training delivery. You will be in sympathy with the values and mission of the Church of England and committed to collaborative, professional working.

What we offer

• £53,664 per annum (£48,297 during training period if Mission & Pastoral responsibilities are phased in)
• 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.

Employment and Safeguarding

Chichester DBF 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.