Finance and Data Administrator

The main purpose of the role is to ensure the effective implementation of financial policy through administration of the ordination training budget. This comprises tuition fees paid to Theological Education Institutions and maintenance grants paid to some 1200 ordinands in training each year by all 42 dioceses.

This role is a fixed term contract, until 31st December 2026.

The Ministry Development Team is engaged in a major programme of change with the result that the way in which these grants are assessed, allocated and paid will change significantly. The Finance and Data Administrator will have a key role in implementation of the new arrangements as well as ensuring high levels of service and process improvement in the light of experience and stakeholder feedback.

The Finance and Data Administrator plays a central role in ensuring the effective and compassionate administration of financial support for ordinands and ministry training across the Church of England. The postholder will manage core elements of the Training for Ministry budget, including the calculation and payment of tuition fees, maintenance grants and Resourcing Ministerial Formation (RMF) funds, as well as ad hoc grants such as disability-related and discretionary awards. A key part of the role is supporting the implementation of grant policies clearly, consistently and with appropriate pastoral sensitivity.

Alongside this, the role has significant responsibility for data management and reporting. The postholder will maintain and interrogate data relating to ordinand training, vocational exploration, and attendance at Stage 1 and Stage 2 Shared Discernment Panels, ensuring information is accurate, up to date and fit for purpose. They will also monitor and report on the use of restricted funds and support the implementation of the Ministry Training Fund, producing reports and analysis as required to inform decision-making.

The role also contributes to effective financial management across the Ministry Development Team. Working closely with colleagues, the postholder will support the development of departmental budgets, monitor expenditure against forecasts, and liaise with the Archbishops' Council Finance Department to resolve budgetary issues as they arise. Clear communication of financial information is essential, including expenditure, supplier payments and income, alongside the administration of expense workflows on SAP. The postholder will also oversee the administration of other ad hoc training grants, ensuring processes are robust and well understood.

The postholder will bring relevant experience and understanding to support the effective management of grants and finances within a church and charitable context. They will be comfortable working with financial data and systems, and able to apply this confidently in a professional setting.

Knowledge and experience

• Familiarity with using databases and financial systems, such as SAP.
• A high level of computer literacy, particularly in the creation, use and formatting of spreadsheets.
• Experience of working with grants and financial processes, preferably within a Church or other charitable organisation.
• An understanding of, and empathy with, the ethos and mission of the Church of England.

The role requires strong analytical capability and the ability to communicate financial information clearly and accurately to a range of audiences, both internal and external.

Skills and abilities

• A keen analytical mind, with high numeracy skills and close attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• The ability to present clear, accurate and proportionate financial information to colleagues and external stakeholders.
• A high degree of discretion and reliability, with a strong commitment to confidentiality.
• The ability to work independently and in line with agreed policies and guidelines.
• Willingness and ability to travel within England and attend occasional meetings outside London.

Desirable criteria

In addition, the following experience and qualifications would be advantageous:

• Confidence in using Church and theological language, with an understanding of the structures of the Church of England.
• Experience of grant funding within a national institution.

A recognised financial qualification or formal financial training.