At a Glance
- Tasks: Advise on the care and development of church buildings and churchyards.
- Company: Guildford Diocesan Board of Finance, committed to heritage and community.
- Benefits: Gain experience, network with professionals, and contribute to meaningful projects.
- Other info: Unpaid volunteer role with expenses covered; flexible meeting options.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on church heritage while supporting local communities.
- Qualifications: Expertise in architecture, engineering, or conservation; passion for church life.
The Guildford Diocesan Board of Finance (GDBF) is seeking new volunteer members to join its Diocesan Advisory Committee (DAC) — a statutory body that plays a vital role in supporting the care, conservation and development of church buildings and churchyards across the Diocese. As a DAC Member, you will use your professional expertise and understanding of church life to advise parishes and the Chancellor on proposals affecting historic and contemporary church buildings. You will help ensure that change is thoughtful, lawful and mission-focused, balancing heritage conservation with the evolving needs of worship and ministry.
What you’ll contribute:
- Professional advice on alterations, repairs and development of church buildings and churchyards
- Informed participation in the faculty process, including review of plans and supporting documents
- Constructive engagement with parishes through meetings, papers and occasional site visits
- Sound judgement that integrates conservation standards, liturgical need and practical considerations
What we’re looking for:
- Expertise in one or more relevant areas such as architecture, archaeology, structural engineering, conservation, planning, construction, or liturgy
- Ability to analyse technical and contextual information and contribute to balanced decision‑making
- Commitment to preparing for and attending up to six meetings per year (mix of online and in‑person)
- Willingness to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary committee
- Understanding of, or sympathy with, the mission and ministry of the Church of England
This is an unpaid volunteer position, though reasonable expenses (including travel) will be reimbursed. Appointments are normally for a three‑year term. If you are passionate about church buildings, heritage and mission, and would like to use your skills to support parishes across the Diocese, we would be delighted to hear from you.
To apply: Please submit a CV together with a supporting statement, outlining how you meet the essential and desirable criteria in the person specification. For an informal conversation about the role, please contact: Kate Darwent, Head of Governance & Operations at Kate.Darwent@cofeguildford.org.uk.
This role does not require a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. The Diocese takes its responsibility for safeguarding children and adults seriously, and recruitment processes reflect this commitment. We believe diversity is a strength. We actively welcome and encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and identities, particularly those who are younger, female, from UK Minority Ethnic / Global Majority heritage, or disabled, so that our committees better reflect the communities we serve.
Member of the Diocesan Advisory Committee (DAC) in Guildford employer: The Diocese of Guildford
The Guildford Diocesan Board of Finance offers a unique opportunity for individuals passionate about heritage and community service to contribute meaningfully as members of the Diocesan Advisory Committee. With a commitment to diversity and inclusion, the organisation fosters a collaborative work culture that values professional expertise while supporting personal growth through engagement with church life and heritage conservation. This volunteer role not only allows you to make a significant impact on the preservation of church buildings but also connects you with like-minded individuals dedicated to the mission of the Church of England.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Member of the Diocesan Advisory Committee (DAC) in Guildford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in your field, especially those involved with church buildings or heritage conservation. A casual chat can lead to opportunities you might not find on job boards.
✨Tip Number 2
Get involved in local events or workshops related to church architecture or conservation. This not only boosts your knowledge but also helps you meet potential collaborators and decision-makers in the community.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t shy away from showcasing your expertise! Share your insights on social media or write articles about church conservation. This positions you as a knowledgeable candidate when opportunities arise.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of the Diocesan Advisory Committee.
We think you need these skills to ace Member of the Diocesan Advisory Committee (DAC) in Guildford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your relevant expertise in areas like architecture or conservation. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your experience!
Craft a Compelling Supporting Statement:This is your chance to shine! Use your supporting statement to explain how you meet the essential and desirable criteria. Be specific and give examples of your past work that relate to church buildings and heritage.
Show Your Passion:Let us know why you care about church buildings and their mission. A genuine enthusiasm for the role can really make your application stand out, so share your thoughts on how you can contribute to the DAC.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of applications and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Diocese of Guildford
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of church architecture, conservation standards, and the faculty process. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're serious about the role and understand the nuances involved.
✨Show Your Passion
Express your enthusiasm for church buildings and heritage during the interview. Share personal experiences or projects that highlight your commitment to conservation and ministry, as this will resonate with the committee's mission.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask about the DAC's current projects or challenges. This not only demonstrates your interest but also shows that you're ready to engage constructively with parishes and the committee.
✨Collaborative Mindset
Emphasise your ability to work within a multidisciplinary team. Share examples of past collaborations where you balanced different perspectives, as this is crucial for making informed decisions in the DAC.
