Parish Support Officer

Lambeth Palace Library; Portsmouth; On-site; GBP 60,000 - GBP 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent religious institution in Portsmouth is seeking a highly organised and proactive Parish Support Officer to provide vital administrative and data support on a 12-month maternity cover contract. The role entails coordination of parish statistics, maintaining church databases, assisting during financial audits, and supporting stewardship initiatives. Ideal candidates will have strong administrative skills, attention to detail, and proficiency in Microsoft Office, thriving as part of a collaborative team.

Qualifications

• Strong administrative skills are essential for managing tasks effectively.
• Attention to detail is critical when working with data.
• Clear communication with various stakeholders is necessary.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate the annual Statistics for Mission and Finance process.
• Maintain and update the diocesan database with details of all laity.
• Assist the Stewardship Adviser with data input for donations.

Skills

Strong administrative and organisational skills

Accurate data management

Clear communication

Proficient in databases and Microsoft Office

Ability to work collaboratively

Job description

Location: Peninsular House, Portsmouth
Contract: Fixed‑term, 12 months

We are seeking a highly organised and proactive Parish Support Officer to join our team on a 12‑month maternity cover contract. This role provides vital administrative and data support to parishes across the Diocese, helping ensure accurate record‑keeping, smooth processes, and excellent communication.

Key Responsibilities

Parish Statistics & Finance Support

• Co‑ordinate the annual Statistics for Mission and Finance process.
• Provide parish administrators with login credentials and guidance to complete their online returns.
• Audit parish statistics against annual fee payments and investigate any discrepancies.

Data Management & Record Updates

• Maintain and update the diocesan database with details of all laity.
• Ensure new clergy post holders complete data protection forms and, where required, update CMS accordingly.
• Notify the Finance Team of changes to Parish Treasurers and update the CCLA spreadsheet.

Annual Place Audit

• Work alongside the PAs to the Archdeacons to complete the Annual Place Audit.
• Follow up with parishes to ensure timely submissions and implement changes on CMS.

>Parochial Fees Administration

• Record all parochial fees and resolve queries from parishes.
• Provide support to parishes, especially during vacancies, ensuring figures reconcile with Finance.

Stewardship & Donations Support

• Assist the Stewardship Adviser by inputting data into the donations coordinator software for gift aid and tax recovery.
• Support the rollout of stewardship initiatives, including digital giving projects.

Synod & Office Services Administration

• Provide administrative support for Synod elections, clergy stipends, electoral registrations, and the electoral roll.

About You

We are looking for someone who:

• Has strong administrative and organisational skills
• Works accurately with data and has excellent attention to detail
• Communicates clearly and professionally with a range of stakeholders
• Is confident using databases and Microsoft Office
• Enjoys working collaboratively as part of a supportive team