New director of Finance appointed for the Diocese of Worcester

Sarah Powell has been appointed as the new Director of Finance for the Diocese, which covers Dudley and Sandwell, and will start her new role on January 1.

In this role, Ms Powell will lead the finance team responsible for looking after and accounting for the finances of the Diocesan Board of Finance, as well as a large number of trust funds, and supporting parishes across Worcestershire and Dudley with their finances.

Ms Powell comes to the Diocese from Birmingham-based audit, tax and consultancy firm RSM. 

She had worked there for 10 years, primarily within the Audit department, but with recent time spent in the Accounting and Business Advisory department. 

Prior to working at RSM, she started her training at accounting firm Bishop Fleming in Worcester and during this time, she has worked with a large number of companies and charities across a variety of sectors.

She said: “I am really looking forward to getting started as the new diocesan Director of Finance. 

"I am excited to learn all about the Diocese and how it works, as well as getting to know everyone. 

"I feel that my previous experience gained working closely alongside the not-for-profit sector will put me in a good place to help support churches across the Diocese.”

Diocesan Secretary, Andy Todd, said: “I am delighted to be welcoming Sarah into this key role within the Diocesan Office team. 

"Ensuring that the Diocese’s finances are scrutinised and managed as efficiently as possible and working directly with parishes to support them in the challenges they face, is a vital part of the service we offer as a parish support hub.”