BACK TO ALL ARTICLES

 

We’re looking for a full-time project secretary to join us on a fixed term contract from 2nd October 2023 – 31st December 2027. This is a hybrid role based at St John’s College, Durham, with up to 50% of hours working from home. The secretary would provide administrative support for science-engaged theology projects around the world.

Job title: Project Secretary

Responsible to: ECLAS Project Manager

Grade: Grade 4, St Johns College Graded Pay Scale

Salary range: £24,534 per annum.

Pension: St John’s College Group Personal Pension Plan

Contract type: Fixed term: 2nd October 2023 – 31st December 2027

Working arrangements: 35 hours per week, working at St John’s College Durham, with the option of working up to 50% of contracted hours from home

Holidays: 27 days annual leave plus statutory holiday and Durham University customary days

Closing date: 17:00 15th September 2023

Interview date: 25th September 2023

 

About St John’s College

St John’s College is one of the smallest Durham colleges, renowned for our welcoming atmosphere. Founded in 1909 and set in a series of beautiful, listed buildings in the heart of Durham city, our community enjoys stunning views of Durham Cathedral and boasts gardens and lawns stretching down to the River Wear. Each year we have around 270 students resident in the College – undergraduates and postgraduates studying for degrees at Durham University, as well as students of Cranmer Hall, a theological College within St John’s. The College has a degree of independence within the University, both financially and in its governance, meaning that we have the freedom to do things a little differently. Throughout the year, the College’s Christian ethos translates into warm hospitality. All our different staff teams work closely together with our students to create the unique John’s experience.

 

Equipping Christian Leadership in an Age of Science

This project seeks to transform the culture of science engagement across the church, improving both the quality and quantity of science-engaged theology at all levels. ECLAS activities connect Christian leaders with leading science and scientists around the world, empowering them for evangelism, mission, and ministry.

ECLAS activities cluster in 5 strands: A) research into Christian leaders’ attitudes toward science, with investigators in Durham, York, London, and 4 international hubs; B) online and in-person conferences for senior leaders; C) Scientists in Congregations awards to promote congregation-level engagement with local scientists; D) Science for Seminaries awards to promote engagement with science in ministry formation; and E) resourcing for the Church of England’s office of Faith and Public Life.

ECLAS is an established name in science-engaged theology, working across the theological spectrum. We pride ourselves on our internal and external communication skills and welcome all staff in strategic and theological reflection. Core administration is based in Durham. Occasional travel may be required to support off-site events.

 

Key Responsibilities

• Provide administrative support for the Durham based Project Manager and Programme Co-ordinator
• Provide support for meetings by scheduling, drafting agendas, and taking minutes
• Archive records for the project including agendas and minutes, reports, budgets and other project documents
• Maintain stakeholder and financial databases with attention to detail
• Assist with budgets, planning, and correspondence related to Senior Leadership Conferences and Scientists in Congregations programmes
• Assist with in-person conference logistics including printing and mailing materials, sending invitations, registration, and delegate support.
• Assist in the preparation of forms for procurement and reimbursement
• Liaise with St John’s Finance team to keep track of spending in real time
• Support other ECLAS team members in project activities as needed

 

Person Specification

Essential criteria

• Excellent English language skills, both written and oral
• Excellent team-working and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and exercise personal initiative
• Good time management skills and ability to focus on the delivery of assigned tasks
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook and Teams

Desirable criteria

• Proficiency with Google Workspace software
• Experience working with databases
• Proficiency with Airtable software
• Knowledge and understanding of church leadership structures and networks

 

Application process

The application must include:

• Letter of application, indicating how you can fulfil the essential and desired criteria
• Current CV
• Names and contact details of two referees (including current or most recent line manager)

Applications and any informal enquiries should be submitted by email to eclas.admin@durham.ac.uk

Deadline for applications is 17:00 15th September 2023

Interviews will be held in person at St John’s College, 3 South Bailey, Durham, DH1 3RJ on 25th September 2023.

For a downloadable PDF of this Job Description, please visit https://www.durham.ac.uk/colleges-and-student-experience/colleges/st-johns/about/vacancies/