About the Diocese of York
The Church of England, through its national network of parishes, is deeply embedded in the life of the nation, providing a Christian presence and enriching communities throughout England. Comprising 41 dioceses led by Bishops, its reach spans the entire country.
The Diocese of York serves the people of North and East Yorkshire, including the cities of York, Hull, and Middlesbrough, the towns of Selby, and the surrounding countryside including two National Parks and the spectacular Yorkshire coast. Led by the Archbishop of York, The Most Revd Stephen Cottrell, the Diocese is home to nearly 600 churches, 125 schools, and 442 parishes, with York Minster at its heart.
We are currently revitalising our diocesan vision through Living Christ’s Story—a bold initiative focusing on deepening discipleship, extending outreach, growing missionary communities, and reshaping our structures and resources to better serve the Church's mission.
About the Role
We are seeking a motivated and skilled Glebe, Property and Trusts Officer to join our Property Team. This team manages a substantial and diverse portfolio, including clergy housing, glebe land, and parish property trusts—supporting the Church’s ministry across 2,600 square miles of the diocese.
Key Responsibilities:
- Glebe Land Oversight: Act as the main liaison with external agents managing the diocese’s 3,000-acre glebe land portfolio (valued at ~£18 million), ensuring proactive estate management, compliance with budget and strategic goals, and identifying opportunities for investment and development.
- Legal Processes: Lead and coordinate legal processes related to property acquisitions, disposals, leases, licences, and statutory registrations—working closely with the Diocesan Board of Finance’s appointed legal advisors.
- Trusts and Parish Property Guidance: Oversee and advise on the administration of custodian trusts (~£16 million) and ensure compliance with relevant legal and charitable requirements when selling or utilising parish-held assets.
- Strategic Contribution: Provide informed legal and strategic input into wider diocesan and parish asset utilisation, contributing to effective stewardship and resource development.
About you
We are looking for an individual who combines legal and property expertise with an appreciation for the mission and structures of the Church. You will be comfortable navigating complex legal frameworks, managing stakeholder relationships, and offering proactive, strategic advice.
Essential Skills and Experience:
- Demonstrable experience in property and land law, including leases, acquisitions, disposals, and trust matters.
- Strong understanding of charity and ecclesiastical property legislation.
- Proven ability to manage external agents and consultants effectively.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Analytical thinker with a strategic mindset.
- Able to work collaboratively within a values-driven organisation.
Why Join Us?
This is a unique opportunity to work in a values-based organisation making a positive impact across Yorkshire. You will be part of a supportive team, contributing meaningfully to the life and mission of the Church, while developing a strategic and professional property function with long-term vision.
We are committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion and welcome applications from disabled candidates and those from UKME heritage as these groups are under-represented in our staff.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. All employees are expected to share this commitment. You will be required to undertake safeguarding training, and this role will be subject to a DBS check.
This role is based at the Diocesan Office in Clifton Moor, York. For any enquiries, please contact Kirsty McCullough at 01904 699500 or email [email protected]
To find out more about this exciting opportunity, particular areas of responsibility and the experience that we are looking for, as well as to apply please visit the Church of England recruitment portal - Pathways.
Only fully completed applications through Pathways will be accepted; applicants must have the right to work in the UK.
Closing date: Tuesday, 24 June 2025
Interviews: Thursday, 3 July 2025 in York
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent, Graduate
Pay: From £44,929.00 per year
Benefits:
- Cycle to work scheme
- Enhanced maternity leave
- Free parking
- Health & wellbeing programme
- On-site parking
- Sick pay
Schedule:
- Monday to Friday
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person
Application deadline: 24/06/2025
