We are delighted to announce that after a competitive and robust process that attracted strong interest, Iain Blythe has been appointed as the next Diocesan Secretary for the Diocese of Canterbury.
Iain is a qualified solicitor and brings with him a wealth of experience having worked as the Estates Secretary for the Diocese of St Albans, and prior to that held a number of roles in the church nationally and locally.
Iain will begin his role on Tuesday 2 April 2024 at which point the current Diocesan Secretary Stephen Taylor will be retiring.
The role of Diocesan Secretary is a senior leader in our diocese who supports the bishop and staff in delivering the vision and strategy of the diocese as well as having responsibility for overseeing administration, finance, people services, communications and other areas of diocesan work.
Archdeacon of Ashford The Venerable Darren Miller was on the interview panel and said: “It’s great to have Iain joining our diocesan team bringing a wealth of experience, vision, and drive.
“I think he will be a great resource for us as he continues Stephen’s work alongside all of us working together serving God’s church in this place.”
Iain said: “It is an honour to be appointed Diocesan Secretary and to be joining the staff in the Diocese of Canterbury.
“I know there is a committed and dedicated team, and we will play a vital role in furthering the work and mission of the Church and serving our parishes, schools and communities.
“I have been delighted by the warmth of the welcome I have received so far, and I look forward to meeting the people across the Diocese over the coming weeks and months.”
In his free time, Iain enjoys football, swimming, reading, quizzes and cricket.
The recruitment process included a long list interview with the search and selection partner, followed by a shortlist and then two panel interviews which were chaired by Bishop Rose and included a balance of clergy, laity and gender.