Parish Support Officer (12‑month Maternity Cover)


    Category
    Diocesan
    Address
    Portsmouth Diocesan Board of Finance 1st Floor, Peninsular House, Wharf Road, Portsmouth PO2 8HB
    Phone
    023 9289 9664
    Email
    louise.gifford@portsmouth.anglican.org
    Website
    https://pathways.churchofengland.org/en/jobs/parish-support-officer-12-month-maternity-cover/3360
    Deadline
    26 Feb 2026, 5 p.m.
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    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.
    • Salary: £26,025.00 per annum (Full-time equivalent)
    • Location: Peninsular House, Portsmouth
    • Contract: Fixed‑term, 12 months
    • Closing date for applications: 5pm, February 26th

    The Diocese of Portsmouth is committed to creating and sustaining a diverse and inclusive workforce that represents our context and wider community. We are aware that those of United Kingdom Minority Ethnic/Global Majority Heritage, women and disabled people are currently under-represented among our clergy, and we particularly encourage applications from those with the relevant skills and experience that will increase this representation. The appointment will of course be based on merit alone. Enhanced DBS will be required.