Bishop's Chaplain in the Diocese of Exeter

Key aspects of the role include:
- Supporting the Bishop in his diocesan, civic and national responsibilities.
- Assisting the Bishop with administrative, pastoral and practical tasks across the Diocese.
- Analysing, reflecting upon and briefing the Bishop on the theological, policy and
procedural implications of a wide range of issues facing the Church and wider society.
- Managing specific issues and projects on behalf of the Bishop.
- Supporting the Bishop in his statutory roles and obligations.
- Contributing to the overall vision and strategy of the diocese by participating in Bishop's
Staff meetings and the Bishop's Strategy Group, serving as a trusted advisor to the
Bishop and other senior staff.
- Leading the Bishop's Office Team, overseeing the overall operational plan for the office
and line managing the Bishop's Administrator and Hospitality Co-ordinator (one role).

The Chaplain will be a key member of the Bishop's Personal Staff which includes the Bishop's PA, the Bishop's Administrator and Hospitality Co-ordinator, the Palace Gardener and a part-time Driver. The Bishop's Office is located in the Gatehouse to the Bishop's Palace in central Exeter. The Bishop's Administrator and Hospitality Co-ordinator provides administrative support to the Chaplain.

The role demands a time commitment comparable to that if a parish priest. Generally, the Bishop's Chaplain will be expected to participate in morning and evening worship and maintain regular office hours from 9.00am to 5.00pm with a break for lunch. Some evening commitments may be required. The designated rest day is usually Saturday, though there may be occasional Saturday duties, in which case an alternative day off can be arranged. It is crucial that the Bishop's Chaplain is typically available when the Bishop is in the office, given the demands on the Bishop's diary.

Housing will be provided at no cost including exemptions from rent, council tax and water rates, located a short distance from the Bishop's Office. The Bishop's Chaplain will occupy this accommodation under a licence from its owners, the Diocesan Board of Finance. Additionally, removal expenses will be covered, along with a resettlement grant currently set at £2867. Permission may be granted to a Chaplain to live in his or her own property. However, if this is the preferred option, no housing allowance is available.

Closing date is 29 June 2026. Interviews are 27 and 28 July 2026.