Parish Adviser

About the role

The Diocese of Sussex is looking for an enthusiastic Parish Adviser to support the mission and ministry of parishes, benefices and deaneries across Sussex. You will work closely with clergy, lay leaders and diocesan colleagues to help churches thrive through sound financial and governance practices.

Key responsibilities

• Provide advice and practical support to Parochial Church Councils on charity governance, finance, accounting and stewardship.
• Deliver training seminars, workshops and resources for PCC officers and parish volunteers.
• Assist parishes with Gift Aid, financial compliance and record‑keeping.
• Support the use of the Church of England’s Cornerstone platform and manage Parish Share subscriptions.
• Review parish finance and mission returns to ensure compliance with charity reporting standards.
• Offer consultancy during clergy vacancies and help strengthen financial sustainability.

Required profile

• Strong communication skills and a passion for supporting parish ministry.
• Experience preparing accounts for small charities or churches.
• Knowledge of the Charities Act 2011 and Charity SORP.
• Familiarity with parish finance within the Church of England.
• Proven ability to deliver training and work with volunteer committees.

Required skills

• Charity governance
• Accounting
• Gift Aid administration
• Cornerstone platform usage

What we offer

• Hybrid working with flexi‑time.
• Fixed‑term contract (2.5 years) with a salary of £38,600 per year.
• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact on local churches.