Are you an entrepreneurial person with a background in finance and/or operations? Do you have experience and proven success in charity development and sustainability, either in a secular or Christian context? If so, this may be the perfect opportunity for you!
The Lightwave Community (CIO) is a dispersed Christian community across the whole of the Diocese of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich which has a unique role in helping the diocese to fulfil its priorities. Lightwave has a vision for growing new disciples and bringing a wave of God’s light and love in the county of Suffolk through small missional groups and fresh expressions of Church.
To this end, we are looking for a Lead for Operations who can provide strategic guidance and leadership to Lightwave and guide its transition from being project-funding dependent to becoming an ongoing flourishing missional community that is fully integrated within the structures of the Diocese, whilst maintaining its pioneering charism. Particular focus will be on driving strategy, operations and financial sustainability for the Lightwave Forest Heath Hub, while supporting volunteers from other hubs and groups and the community as a whole.
The ideal candidate will be able to demonstrate their proven ability to develop and drive strategy, engage others in this, and partner effectively with organisations and individuals to develop funding relationships. A sound understanding of church and charity finances and how this works operationally day to day is also essential.
This post is with the Diocesan Board of Finance (DBF) of the Church of England in Suffolk. The DBF is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. All postholders and volunteers are expected to share this commitment.
All appointments are subject to acceptable pre-appointment checks, including a satisfactory DBS check where required.
For full details and to apply go to the Diocesan Website here where you will find the job description and application forms etc.
For an informal conversation please email the Revd Diane Grano, Leader-designate of the Lightwave Community to arrange a suitable time.
To explore becoming a Rural Outreach Pioneer or a Lightwave Group Leader click here
Location: Red Lodge, Suffolk
Salary: £25,000 – £26,500 (depending on experience)
Hours: 35 hours/week, flexible including evenings/weekends
Application Deadline: 4th June 2025
Start Date: As soon as possible
Are you passionate about seeing young lives transformed by Jesus?
Do you love building relationships, creating fun and faith-filled environments, and inspiring the next generation?
The Forest Heath Lightwave Hub (part of the Lightwave Community and the Church of England in Suffolk) is seeking a dynamic Youth Leader to serve in Red Lodge and surrounding rural villages. You’ll be part of a pioneering team helping young people (ages 10–18) discover a life-changing relationship with Jesus.
Leading and growing youth groups, including Youth Church, Trail Blazers, and Deep Rooted.
Creating exciting events, trips and outreach activities that draw young people in.
Equipping and mentoring young people to serve and grow in faith.
Connecting with schools and community organisations to reach young people where they are.
Building and training a team of passionate volunteers.
Supporting Sunday Junior Church and working alongside the wider “Growing Younger” team.
We’re looking for someone who:
Is a practicing Christian with a vibrant personal faith in Jesus.
Loves being with young people and is young at heart.
Has experience leading youth work and delivering talks/discipleship activities.
Is highly organised, creative, and a great communicator (online and in person).
Understands the importance of community and evangelism in rural settings.
Can plan, manage, and evaluate ministry projects effectively.
Theological training or youth work qualifications
Experience with church-based or school-based youth ministry
Skills in social media and digital communication
A chance to shape a growing youth ministry in a supportive Christian team
Ongoing training and spiritual development
25 days holiday + public holidays
Flexible working arrangements and TOIL (Time Off in Lieu)
Pension scheme (after probation)
Lightwave is a network of small Christian communities meeting in rural Suffolk - part of the Church of England in Suffolk. Our mission is to shine the light of Jesus into every part of life through witness, worship, and social action. We aim to be church for people who don’t normally "do church" – especially young people.
Enhanced DBS
Full UK driving licence and access to a car (insured for business use)
Occupational Requirement: practising Christian (Equality Act 2010, Schedule 9)
See below
👋 Want to Chat First?
Email Alison Earl at alison.earl@cofesuffolk.org for an informal conversation.
If this sounds like you, we can’t wait to hear from you!
Join us in making a lasting difference in the lives of young people in Suffolk.
