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The Church Office

Gavin Smith

The Church Office exists to support the work of ministry that happens behind the scenes. Bringing helpful and encouraging content to equip and support those involved in Church Administration, Church Leadership and Structuring Church Life.

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20 episodes
fortnightly
Avg 42 min
English

Episodes 20

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S9 · E13
September 12 · 42 min
From Church Administrator to Church Manager: Janet Sutherland’s Story
After 22 years as a primary school teacher, Janet Sutherland sensed God leading her into a completely new chapter, first as a church administrator and later as church manager. In this episode, Janet shares honestly about that transition and the growing responsibilities she now carries, from managing buildings, rotas and governance to supporting staff, volunteers and members of the wider community. We explore the joys and challenges of a role in which no two days are the same, the importance of supportive leadership and healthy appraisals, and why church administrators and managers need trusted relationships with others who understand their work. An encouraging conversation for anyone serving behind the scenes in church ministry, particularly those whose role is growing and changing.
S9 · E12
August 25 · 30 min
Mind the GAP Conference: Leading from the Middle
In this episode, we introduce the vision behind the Mind the GAP conference, created for church managers, administrators, operations managers and ministry leaders serving in the space between vision and delivery. We explore the reality of leading from the “messy middle", translating vision into action, managing competing priorities, supporting senior leaders and bringing staff and volunteers with you. Discover how the conference will equip you with practical skills, greater confidence and the influence needed to help your church or Christian organisation move forward together.
S9 · E11
July 24 · 39 min
Behind the Scenes of Gospel Ministry- The Gospel Coalition
What does it take to build a healthy ministry behind the scenes? In this episode, Gavin Smith is joined by Zach Cochran, Vice President for Operations at The Gospel Coalition, to explore the often-overlooked role of operations in advancing gospel ministry. The conversation explores the unique calling of the "number two" leader, the importance of trust, integrity and consistency, and why operational leaders are often called to absorb pressure while enabling others to flourish. Whether you're a church leader, operations manager, administrator or volunteer, this episode offers practical wisdom on building healthy teams, leading through change, and creating the structures that help churches faithfully fulfil their mission. In this episode you'll discover: The story behind The Gospel Coalition Why healthy organisations focus on sustainability, not just growth The vital role of the church operations leader How trust, integrity and consistency shape effective leadership Why youth ministry is one of the best leadership training grounds Leading through disappointment and organisational change How operational excellence supports gospel ministry A thoughtful conversation for anyone passionate about strengthening the local church through faithful leadership and healthy organisational culture.
S9 · E10
July 10 · 48 min
Your Church Beyond Sunday: Building an Online Presence
A church's online presence is often the very first welcome someone receives, long before they ever walk through its doors. In this episode, Jon Wright, Trustee of The Church Office, and Adrian Semerene, church pastor, explore how churches can make the most of their digital presence. Together they discuss websites, social media, live-streamed services, and digital communication, sharing practical ideas to help churches engage their communities, strengthen relationships, and faithfully reflect the life and mission of the church online.
S9 · E9
June 26 · 32 min
Is Your Church Ready for Martyn's Law?
Martyn's Law is bringing new responsibilities for many churches and Christian organisations. In this episode, Anna Wood, one of The Church Office Trustees, and Becky Thomas, Director of Governance at the FIEC, join us to unpack what the legislation means, who it applies to, and the practical steps churches can take now to improve safety, prepare their teams, and respond well in an emergency. Whether your church falls within the scope of the legislation or not, this conversation will help you think proactively about protecting people and being prepared.
S9 · E8
June 12 · 30 min
Join the UK Church Administrators Network (UCAN)
In our latest The Church Office podcast, Jon Wright is joined by Penny Clarke, one of the Directors of the UK Church Administrators Network (UCAN). Listen in as they discuss what UCAN is, their experiences of being part of UCAN and how you can get involved!
S9 · E7
May 28 · 49 min
Managing Change in Churches
In this episode, Gavin is joined by Rachel Slough to explore the important subject of managing change in churches. Rachel shares practical wisdom and honest insight into why change can feel challenging, how leaders can guide people well through transition, and the importance of communication, culture, and trust along the way. Together they discuss the realities churches face when navigating growth, vision, and new seasons of ministry. This conversation offers encouragement and practical tools for church leaders, administrators, and teams seeking to lead change with wisdom, care, and confidence.
S9 · E6
May 15 · 53 min
Employment law changes in April and October 2026
In this episode, Gavin is joined by Mark Jones from Edward Connor Solicitors to discuss some of the key employment law changes coming in April and October 2026. Mark explains what these updates could mean for churches, including changes to statutory sick pay, family leave, redundancy consultation, tribunal time limits, and wider workplace responsibilities. This conversation offers a clear and practical overview for church leaders, trustees, operations managers, and administrators who want to serve their staff teams well, review their policies, and prepare wisely for the changes ahead.
S9 · E5
May 7 · 26 min
BONUS EPISODE- What is a Back Office Review
In this podcast, Gavin speaks with Andy Laws, the new Operations Manager at Slade Evangelical Church in London. Andy shares their church’s experience of undergoing a Back Office Review with The Church Office and the impact it has had on their operations. If you’d like to find out more about booking a Back Office Review for your church, please e-mail us at info@thechurchoffice.co.uk
S9 · E4
April 23 · 49 min
Supporting a Network: Reaching London with the Gospel
What does it take to support a network of churches reaching a city like London with the gospel? In this episode, Gavin Smith is joined by Matthew Dalton, Chief Operations Officer at Co-Mission, a growing network of churches across London. Together, they explore how a relational network, supported by a strong central team, can enable local churches to thrive in their mission. Matthew shares insights on the importance of systems that serve people, fostering unity across diverse congregations, and the challenges of church planting. A thoughtful and practical conversation for anyone involved in church leadership, operations, or network ministry.
S9 · E3
April 10 · 44 min
Church Operations that help bring Light to a City
In this episode, we’re joined by James Brumwell, Executive Lead at Gas Street Church in Birmingham, as we explore the operational side of mission and ministry. Together, we dig into what it really takes behind the scenes to help bring light to a city. James shares practical insights on building systems, leading teams, and creating structures that support meaningful, lasting impact in the community. https://gasstreet.church/theengineroom
S9 · E2
March 26 · 26 min
How Churches Can Actually Get Funding (Without the Headache)
Finding funding for your church building or ministry can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode, we’re joined by Andrew Clark from Church Grants, a platform dedicated to helping churches discover relevant funding opportunities. We explore how churches can access grants, where to start, and what funders are really looking for. If you’ve ever wondered how to fund a building project, expand your ministry, or simply navigate the world of church funding, this episode is packed with practical insight. 🔗 Learn more: www.churchgrants.co.uk
S9 · E1
March 13 · 58 min
The Joy of Building Teams
Building a team is one of the most rewarding parts of church leadership. In this episode with Ray Evans, we explore the joy of bringing people together around a shared vision. Discover how trust, encouragement, and clear purpose can help teams grow stronger, work better together, and make a lasting impact for the gospel in our churches and communities.
S8 · E15
February 27 · 41 min
A Day in the Life of an Operations Director
What does an Operations Director in a church actually do all day? In this episode, we pull back the curtain on the real, behind-the-scenes work that keeps a church moving forward. From managing teams and troubleshooting unexpected problems to balancing budgets, safeguarding compliance, and supporting the vision of senior leadership, no two days are ever the same. Whether you’re an Operations Director, Church Manager, Administrator, or exploring this kind of role, this episode gives an honest look at the challenges, pressures, and rewards of operational leadership in the local church. If you’ve ever wondered who keeps everything running smoothly behind the scenes, this episode is for you.
S8 · E14
February 14 · 46 min
Stewardship: Strengthening Churches and Charities
If you are part of a church team, whether you are the leader, the treasurer or the one holding everything together in the office, you will know how much time and energy the practical side of ministry can take. Gavin talks to Daniel Jones from Stewardship who offer real, hands on support with the financial responsibilities that keep a church running. They can help you grow and manage your giving, they can also take care of the more complicated pieces like payroll, accounts, charity registration, governance and they also offer loans for building projects. Everything they do is designed to free you up to focus on your people and ministry. If that sounds like something your church could use, take a look at Stewardship at stewardship.org.uk.
S8 · E13
January 29 · 45 min
Retreat to Refocus: Vision, Planning and Prayer.
In this episode, Gavin explores with Pete Greasley the value of a team retreat — not as a “nice extra,” but as a practical and spiritual opportunity to slow down, seek God together, and realign. When the pace is relentless, it’s easy for teams to drift and simply go through the motions. A well-shaped retreat creates space to reconnect as leaders, clarify vision, and shape a plan that’s grounded in prayer.
S8 · E12
January 16 · 40 min
Reviewing our Systems, Policy and Procedures
In this episode, we take a practical look at reviewing our Systems, Policies, and Procedures. Whether your church office feels overcomplicated, under-documented, or overly dependent on a few key people, this conversation will help you step back and assess what’s really working. We unpack why regular reviews matter, how to spot gaps and risks, and simple ways to ensure your systems support your mission rather than slow it down.
S8 · E11
Dec 20, 2025 · 30 min
Surviving the Christmas Programme
Gavin talks Christmas with his friend Mark Parsons, Operations Director at Christchurch Clifton. Together, they reflect on why the Christmas programme is often one of the most meaningful and exhausting moments in the church calendar. Expectations are high, diaries are full, and fatigue is real for leaders, volunteers, and congregations alike. They explore how surviving Christmas well isn’t about chasing perfection, but about preparation, clarity, and grace: setting realistic expectations, caring for teams, and remembering what truly matters when the pressure is on.
S8 · E10
Nov 29, 2025 · 52 min
Sustainable Ministry: Cash Flow Planning for Churches
Welcome back Tim Wyatt! It was an absolute delight for us to have Tim back on The Church Office podcast to discuss cash flows and reserves. So if you're wondering how much a church should in reserves, or if they should even have them, this is an episode for you!
S8 · E9
Nov 13, 2025 · 1 hr 1 min
The Trellis and the Vine with Graham Daniels
At The Church Office we love catching up with old friends and that's exactly what Gavin did when he spoke to Graham Daniels from Christian in Sport! How many sports clubs are within a 5 mile radius of your church? Praying for people, playing with people and telling them about Jesus is how Christians in Sport roll. Listen in as Gavin and Graham talk about working as a team, the importance of administration but most of all the importance of keeping the gospel central.

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