Job Description:

Sophia at Avocet Legal Careers is excited to be working with the Diocese of Plymouth to recruit a Parish Secretary for a welcoming parish community in Sidmouth.

This is a varied and rewarding part-time position offering the opportunity to become a key part of parish life, providing essential administrative and organisational support while helping ensure the smooth day-to-day operation of the parish.

About the Diocese

The Diocese of Plymouth supports communities across Devon, Cornwall and Dorset, providing pastoral, administrative and practical support to parishes throughout the region. The Diocese is committed to creating a positive, supportive and welcoming environment where staff play a vital role in supporting the work of local parish communities.

About the Role

Working 16 hours per week, you will provide comprehensive secretarial and administrative support to the parish, helping to coordinate communications, maintain records and support a wide range of parish activities. This position would suit an organised and personable administrator who enjoys working with people, managing multiple priorities and contributing to the success of a busy and community-focused environment.

Parish Secretary Responsibilities

• Acting as the first point of contact for parish enquiries by telephone, email and in person
• Managing correspondence and preparing routine communications and documentation
• Producing parish publications, newsletters, service materials and other administrative resources
• Maintaining accurate records, databases and filing systems
• Coordinating schedules, diaries and parish activities
• Supporting parish committees and volunteers with administrative assistance
• Assisting with invoice administration and financial record-keeping processes
• Arranging maintenance works, monitoring service contracts and coordinating office resources
• Ensuring noticeboards, inventories and parish information are kept up to date
• Supporting safeguarding, health and safety and compliance-related administration

Parish Secretary Requirements

• Previous experience in an administration, secretarial or office support role
• Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint
• A professional and approachable manner when dealing with a wide range of people
• High levels of accuracy and attention to detail
• The ability to handle confidential information with discretion
• A proactive and reliable approach to problem-solving and workload management
• An appreciation of the values and mission of the Diocese of Plymouth

Benefits

• £14.50 per hour/£12,064 per annum
• 20 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays (pro rata)
• Additional leave at Easter and over the Christmas period
• Pension scheme
• Death in Service benefit
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Cashback and employee discount scheme
• Supportive and friendly working environment
• Opportunity to make a meaningful contribution within the local community

The Ideal Candidate

You will be a highly organised administrator who enjoys supporting people, coordinating activities and keeping operations running smoothly behind the scenes. Comfortable working independently while building positive relationships with colleagues, volunteers and parishioners, you'll take pride in delivering a professional and welcoming service.

For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact Sophia at Avocet Legal Careers.