Director Of Finance

The Diocese of Guildford is seeking an experienced Finance Director, to make a real difference to the communities we serve by providing strategic financial leadership and financial sustainability for the diocese. 

The Diocese of Guildford is the Church of England presence in most of Surrey and Northeast Hampshire and serves more than a million people. Led by Bishop, Rt Rev Andrew Watson, and Diocesan Secretary, Geraldine Newbold, we support 156 parishes, 83 church schools, over 200 stipendiary (paid) clergy and 117 authorised lay ministers. Our vision is of a Transforming Church Transforming Lives and is increasingly well-rooted in our parish communities, with churches, schools and community projects becoming more focused in what they believe God is calling them to do in our priority themes of, "growing disciples", "growing diversity" and "growing community".   

Reporting to the Diocesan Secretary (our version of a CEO), you will lead the finance team to ensure that robust reporting and monitoring is in place to the highest standard, lead the preparation of our annual budget and financial forecasting, and oversee an annual income and expenditure of approx. £15m. As a key member of the leadership team, you will also play a critical role in broader strategic decision making, supporting, and advising the Diocesan Secretary in leading the Diocesan Board of Finance.

You will be:

·       an experienced financial leader and a qualified member of a recognised accountancy professional body

·       able to blend technical financial skills with a track record of strategic leadership.

·       able to engage with board level stakeholders.

·       sympathetic of the mission and values of the Church of England and have the ability to learn, where needed, the structures, procedures and drivers that govern life across the diocese.

Benefits of the role include:

·       Competitive salary within the Charity Sector

·       Hybrid working

·       A 15.25% non-contributory pension/life assurance provision

·       25 days annual leave per year, increasing to 26 days in your second year, plus bank holidays

·       An employee assistance programme

·       Learning and development opportunities

·       Attractive open-plan office and surroundings at Church House Guildford with free parking

If you feel you bring the passion and technical skills to play a part in making a real difference to the communities we serve, we would love to hear from you.

How to apply

Interested candidates are invited to send a detailed covering letter, along with your CV, outlining how you meet the essential and desirable criteria in the person specification as detailed in the job description. Applications without a cover letter cannot be considered. 

The Diocese of Guildford take our responsibility for the safeguarding of children and adults seriously. Our recruitment processes reflect this commitment.

We believe that diversity is a strength. We actively welcome and encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and identities, particularly those who identify as female, younger, of a UK Minority Ethnic/Global Majority Heritage, or disabled, as its essential that we reflect the diversity of the communities we serve.