Introduction
The Diocese of Chelmsford is the Church of England in Essex and East London. We are one of the largest and most diverse dioceses in England. Our 500 churches and 138 schools serve more than 3 million people.
The Chelmsford Diocesan Board of Finance (CDBF) is seeking to appoint someone with senior level leadership experience to the voluntary role of Vice Chair.
The Vice Chair of the CDBF will work closely with the Chair of the CDC and will be expected to chair the CDBF, Finance Committee and Finance Executive meetings when the Chair is absent. They will also help to provide leadership and guidance to trustees and members to ensure that diocesan mission and strategy is supported by effective financial strategy, planning and management. The role involves close cooperation with the Diocesan Bishop, Bishop’s Leadership Team and the Chief Executive and Diocesan Secretary.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
- To be an effective Vice Chair of the CDBF, Finance Committee and Finance Executive, leading and supporting members in effective discussion and decision making.
- To be a key contact and adviser for the Chief Executive and Diocesan Secretary on all matters relating to the CDBF and its work and to be available for consultation as necessary throughout the year. This may involve meetings, but is more likely to be by virtual means, telephone or email.
- To support and work collaboratively with the Chair of the CDBF and the Chairs of other Diocesan Boards and Committees.
- To support the Chair in overseeing the auditing of Diocesan Accounts, ensuring that there is an independent Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee.
- To support the leadership team in continuing development of the planning and control cycle.
- To work with and support the Chair in their work with the diocesan leadership and committees.
- To work with and support the Chair in their work to liaise with parishes or deaneries as and when needed and including where there are concerns or challenges to diocesan financial decisions.
- To keep abreast of relevant policies, legislation and national campaigns and working with the Chair, respond to them.
Whilst the Vice Chair of the CDBF is involved in policy making and the development of financial policies, this is not an executive role. Executive functions of the CDBF are carried out by the Chief Executive and Diocesan Secretary and other staff under her direction.
The position of Vice Chair of the DBF is voluntary, unpaid and requires significant time commitment. The post holder will be required to attend around two meetings each month, chairing meetings where the Chair is absent. They will also need to be available to offer consultation and decisions by phone or email within a reasonable time frame. Essential expenses can be refunded by the CDBF.