Independent Chair of the Church of England’s Racial Justice Panel

Introduction

The Church of England are seeking an Independent Chair for their Racial Justice Panel.

The Racial Justice Panel (RJP) was established by the Archbishops’ Council in December 2024 following the successful conclusion of the work on the Archbishops' Commission for Racial Justice led by the Lord Boateng PC, CVO. The RJP is to provide independent assurance that the work of racial justice is being carried out effectively by the Church, in accordance with agreed plans and wider best practice. 

The RJP Panel, albeit a critical friend, maintains its independence, offering rigorous scrutiny and challenge to the Church in its work on racial justice including examining progress against strategic and delivery plans. It shall produce an annual report to be laid before the General Synod.

The RJP are looking to appoint an experienced independent Chair who will provide excellent leadership, direction and independent scrutiny and challenge to the Church of England and bring external expertise from holding a highly senior role.

We are looking for an independent chair who:

• Is a gifted leader, who will support the Church of England in further strengthening its safeguarding arrangements and partnerships.
• Is passionate about working collaboratively at all levels, with a proven track record in improvement work at a national level.
• Knows how to hold organisations to account and possesses the skills to support the development of senior leaders.
• Understands through senior level personal experience, the core aspects of racial justice at a national level and in the field of statutory and/or voluntary sector.
• Is empathetic, strategic, emotional and has analytical skills, and able to act as a ‘critical friend’ in supporting and challenging people and institutions to help improve their racial justice focus, practice and arrangements.
• Has a relevant academic or professional qualification.
• Has an understanding of the structure of the Church of England and an appreciation for the role that faith plays in the context of racial justice.

The successful candidate will be a senior leader, with excellent communication, organisational and interpersonal skills.   

Please note: Experience of church structures and practices, either professionally or personally, are neither a barrier nor a qualification required for this role. However, the candidate must be in sympathy with the aims and work of the Church of England.

The AC is due to be replaced by CENS in 2-3 years’ time, and the role of the RJP will be reviewed once CENS is established. 

Applications should include your CV and supporting statement (each of which should not exceed two A4 pages).

We welcome and encourage applications from prospective candidates of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or other category protected by law.

Location: London, remote location
Commitment: Up to 30 days per year and for an initial period of up to 3 years (subject to a 6-month review).
Closing date for applications: 11 June 2025
Client Interview date: TBC