The conference Executive Secretary operates very much like a company vice-president. His role is to perform general administrative responsibilities and assist the president in his work. Record keeping is a major part of this role. In this connection he also provides statistics about church activities and membership, which help the conference evaluate its progress and plan for the future. It is his job to ensure that the church organisation runs smoothly.
The Secretariat handles forms for events such as General Conference. This department is connected with the Adventist Voluntary Service (AVS) and works with the Church Clerk also. It is the branch that liaises with the British Union Conference, which operates out of offices in Stanborough Park, and ensures our offices are running harmoniously with the rest of the British Conferences.
Our current Executive Secretary handles and assists many Human Resources issues and ultimately supports the President. His role allows him to give assistance to the President in any way possible and in any capacity. Paul Lockham deals with daily queries from pastors and members and therefore works closely with the Human Resources Department. He is involved with many planning committees especially ones including himself, the Treasurer and the President. For example, Administrative and Executive Committees where much discussion and work takes place!
Read more about Paul
Paul
Why did you decide to start working for the church?
I started working for the Church initially as a Minister because it was evident in my life that God wanted something! I previously worked as a research chemist and had felt called by God to work for Him. So, in 1983 I started work for the South England Conference. I then proceeded to work in both the Irish Mission and then the Welsh Mission, up until 2006, after which I was called back to the South England Conference, after its Session, to start work in this position as the Executive Secretary!
What would you say are the challenges of your job?
In the present climate, where there has been such a big shift from pastoral service to pastoral employee, I think it is a challenge to emphasise the pastoral service side to the role of Executive Secretary. I feel that the biggest challenge that God has set us is helping the church rediscover and remember its core mission.
What are the highlights of your time as director of this Department?
The thing that I enjoy most, is the fact that I wasn’t looking for this position. I enjoy helping people and have found that in this role I can do this as well as administrate and teach; a great combination.
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