Governance Officer (DAC Secretary)

Role Summary

We are seeking an experienced administrator and coordinator to join our Property & Buildings Team. This is a varied role focused on committee administration, case management, stakeholder liaison, governance support and maintaining compliance within a structured decision-making process. Full training will be provided on the Church of England's faculty system and relevant legislation. We are particularly interested in candidates with strong administrative, governance, coordination or case management experience.

Providing support for the work of the Diocesan Advisory Committee (DAC) - A group of experts that advises churches on building works, changes, and care to ensure they are appropriate, sustainable, and compliant -

and the Diocese of Liverpool’s closed church buildings processes. The role is key to ensuring the smooth, efficient, and compliant operation of DAC procedures, while supporting parishes in the care, development, and sustainable use of church buildings and churchyards.

Working closely with senior diocesan staff, Archdeacons, and national Church of England bodies, the postholder will act as a primary point of contact for parishes, clergy, and external stakeholders. They will facilitate faculty processes (similar to secular planning system), manage communications and records, and provide guidance on heritage, legal, and planning matters – which is something we can provide support and training on. Through strong organisational skills and a proactive approach, the role supports the Diocese of Liverpool’s commitment to responsible stewardship, effective mission, and long-term sustainability, working with and advising parishes to develop successful applications.

We'd Love to Hear From You If You Have Experience In:

• Public sector administration and business support
• Committee or governance administration
• Casework or process management
• Compliance or regulatory environments
• Property, housing or planning administration
• Project coordination
• Legal support or paralegal work
• Stakeholder engagement and customer service

Duties and key responsibilities:

1. DAC Coordination & Committee Management
2. Coordinate the overall operation of the Diocesan Advisory Committee and its subcommittees
3. Prepare agendas, reports, and papers for meetings
4. Attend meetings, take minutes, and communicate decisions and advice
5. Maintain records of DAC business, including the faculty register
6. Manage conflicts of interest and ensure governance standards are met
7. Circulate agendas, minutes, and documentation to relevant stakeholders
8. Represent the DAC at hearings, including consistory court when required
9. Present applications to the DAC
10. Faculty Process & Advisory Support
11. Act as the first point of contact for all faculty-related enquiries
12. Provide guidance on the care and maintenance of church buildings and churchyards
13. Support clergy, PCCs, and parish officers in navigating the faculty system
14. Assist with applications and documentation via the Online Faculty System
15. Manage expectations regarding processes, requirements, and timescales
16. Work closely with Archdeacons on faculty matters and permissions
17. Work independently within delegated responsibilities to support and progress faculty applications, providing practical guidance and ensuring processes are followed appropriately.
18. Stakeholder Engagement & Communication
19. Build effective relationships with parishes, clergy, architects, surveyors, and local authorities
20. To coordinate education within the diocese of the care and development of church buildings
21. Liaise with national bodies such as the Church Buildings Council and Historic England-
22. Collaborate with internal diocesan teams, including Net Zero and Mission & Pastoral
23. Deliver guidance and support to new incumbents and parish representatives
24. To attend the annual meeting for DAC Secretaries and Chairs organised by the Church Buildings Council
25. Church Buildings Development & Stewardship
26. Support parishes in developing proposals for building changes and improvements
27. Promote sustainable, accessible, and mission-aligned use of church buildings
28. Maintain awareness of planning regulations and conservation requirements
29. Encourage best practice in building care, sustainability, and accessibility
30. Receive and review Quinquennial Inspection Reports, working closely with the Archdeacon to support parishes in delivering recommended repairs and maintenance works.
31. Administration, Data & Systems
32. Maintain accurate records for church buildings, applications, and inspections
33. Ensure documentation is up to date, accessible, and compliant
34. To maintain a register of architects and surveyors approved to undertake quninquennial inspection reports in the diocese
35. Use digital systems (e.g., Online Faculty System) effectively
36. Mission & Pastoral Support (Closed Churches)
37. Support the Closed Church Buildings (Uses and Disposals) sub-committee
38. Prepare agendas and minutes for meetings
39. Assist with administration of closed church buildings
40. Facilitate access for inspections and works, including liaising with stakeholders
41. Gather and manage utility and property-related information
42. Compliance & Governance
43. Ensure legal and procedural compliance under ecclesiastical legislation
44. Maintain indemnity insurance arrangements for DAC members
45. Support governance processes, reporting, and audits
46. Keep informed of relevant legislation, policies, and sector developments

This role will form an integral part of the Property & Buildings Team, providing support to the Team and parishes and undertaking responsibilities as otherwise directed.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION AND PERSON SPECIFICATION PLEASE SEE ATTACHED RECRUITMENT PACK.

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