Administration Assistant for the Bishop of Edmonton

The London Diocesan Fund (LDF) is seeking an Administration Assistant for the Bishop of Edmonton to play a crucial role within the Parish Area Support (Edmonton) team, based at Causton Street.

Job Summary

The Administration Assistant provides comprehensive support to the Bishop of the Edmonton Episcopal area. This includes handling communications, managing schedules, maintaining records, and assisting with safeguarding. Strong organizational skills and confidentiality are essential.

Job Responsibilities

Administrative

• Handle mail, inquiries, telephone calls, and emails to ensure smooth communication.
• Manage the Bishop’s diary and inbox daily, resolving scheduling conflicts.
• Draft letters, memos, and documents as requested.
• Maintain central databases (People System, CMS, Crockfords).
• Liaise with the Director of Ministry for ordination ceremonies.
• Coordinate domestic and international travel for the Bishop.
• Organize meetings, set agendas, take minutes, and distribute them.
• Compile the diocesan newsletter and communications.
• Ensure confidentiality in handling sensitive documents.
• Assist with the renewal and issuance of permissions for clergy and laity.
• Maintain awareness of significant events (confirmations, ordinations, etc.).

Reception and Hospitality

• Provide a professional welcome to visitors.
• Coordinate events, such as seminars, conferences, interviews, and social gatherings. Liaise with external parties to ensure successful execution.

Safeguarding

• Ensure safer recruitment processes, working with the HR team on checks.
• Monitor visa status for clergy without British citizenship.
• Track DBS checks and safeguarding training for clergy and licensed ministers.
• Manage clergy ‘blue files’ in line with GDPR and statutory requirements.
• Handle sensitive safeguarding concerns, identifying appropriate actions.
• Respond to pastoral situations such as clergy in crisis or safeguarding concerns.

Other Duties

• Perform other duties commensurate with the role, contributing to the diocesan team’s success.

Person Specification

Essential

• Proven experience in an administration role.
• Strong organizational skills and administrative efficiency.
• Proficient in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to safeguarding policies.
• Excellent literacy and numeracy skills.
• Ability to manage workloads under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Empathy with the Church of England’s mission and values.
• Right to work in the UK.

Desirable

• Educated to A-Level or equivalent.
• Administration-related qualification or relevant experience.
• Some understanding of the Church of England structures.

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

The Diocese of London is committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce. We encourage applications from individuals of Global Majority Heritage/United Kingdom Minority Ethnic (GMH/UKME), women, and disabled people, who are under-represented in our clergy and workforce.

Safeguarding

The Diocese of London is committed to safeguarding children, young people, and vulnerable adults.

Benefits

• Competitive remuneration package.
• 27 annual leave days, rising to 30 after 5 years, plus bank holidays.
• 15% employer pension contribution with salary sacrifice.
• Death-in-service benefit (x3 basic salary).
• Enhanced maternity leave of six months full pay after 12 months.
• Season ticket loans for public transport.
• Access to Benenden Health Insurance and EAP counselling.
• Up to £100 for eye tests and contribution toward spectacles.
• Two additional paid days for community volunteering.

Interviews will be held on 31st October 2024 (via Zoom).