The Diocese is led, inspired and encouraged by the Diocesan Bishop, the Bishop of Durham, with policies, practices and activity governed by Diocesan Synod.
The Bishop keeps in touch with all aspects of diocesan life through the Bishop’s leadership team, a team of senior colleagues who each have their own connections, contacts and networks across the Diocese.
This supports the Bishop in their role and helps to make decisions on the best ways to support parishes in carrying forward the diocesan vision and strategy, and to inspire all those serving in parishes to bless our communities in Jesus name for the transformation of us all.
Use this section to explore more about the leadership team and how you can contact them.
Meet the team
The Dean of Durham +
The Dean is the most senior post at Durham Cathedral and has an important role in developing the church's place in civic life. The Very Revd Dr Philip Plyming is the current Dean of Durham, installed on Saturday 16 September 2023.
The Diocesan Secretary +
The Diocesan Secretary is the senior executive officer in the diocese, overseeing all aspects of operations to ensure delivery of the vision and strategy. James Morgan was appointed to this role in 2020. Read more.
Email: james.morgan@durham.anglican.org | Tel: (01388) 660 005
Personal Assistant: Kate Martin
Email: kate.martin@durham.anglican.org | Tel: (0191) 374 6017
The Archdeacons of Auckland, Durham & Sunderland
The Archdeacon of Auckland +
The Archdeacon of Auckland is responsible for the southern and western parts of the Diocese of Durham that form the Auckland Archdeaconry. The current Archdeacon of Auckland is The Venerable Rick Simpson.
Email: Archdeacon.of.Auckland@durham.anglican.org
Personal Assistant: Dawn Robinson
Email: dawn.robinson@durham.anglican.org | Tel: (01325) 480 444
The Archdeacon of Durham +
The Archdeacon of Durham is responsible for the parts of the Diocese of Durham that form the Durham Archdeaconry. This role is also responsible for the Diocesan Mission, Discipleship and Ministry team. The current Archdeacon of Durham is The Venerable Libby Wilkinson.
Email: archdeacon.of.durham@durham.anglican.org | Tel: (01388) 604 515
Personal Assistant: Kate Martin
Email: kate.martin@durham.anglican.org | Tel: (0191) 374 6017
The Archdeacon of Sunderland +
The Archdeacon of Sunderland is responsible for the parts of the Diocese of Durham that form the Sunderland Archdeaconry. The position is currently vacant. In the meantime, for those in Easington, Jarrow and Wearmouth deaneries, please contact the Venerable Rick Simpson and for those in Gateshead, Gateshead West or Chester-le-Street and Houghton-le-Spring, please contact the Venerable Libby Wilkinson. During this time of vacancy, the Archdeacons will be assisted by three Assistant Archdeacons - The Revd Paul Arnold, The Revd Canon Katherine Bagnall and The Revd Paul Neville.
Email: archdeacon.of.sunderland@durham.anglican.org | Tel: (0191) 536 2300
Personal Assistant: Linda Richardson
Email: linda.richardson@durham.anglican.org | Tel: (0191) 536 2300
Archdeacons are close to Deanery and parish life, advising and supporting clergy and lay leaders. Read more.
The Bishops Chaplain +
Chris Knights is the Bishop's Chaplain. He administratively and pastorally supports the Bishop. Contact him regarding pastoral matters relating to clergy or liturgical arrangements for services the Bishop is involved in.
Email:
bishop.chaplain@durham.anglican.org.uk | Tel: (0
1388) 602 576
The Vice-Chair of the Board of Finance +
Margaret (Mags) Vaughan is the current Vice-Chair, which is a voluntary role. She chairs the Finance Group sub-committee of the DBF. Mags is also a lay member of the Bishops Council.
Director of Communications +
Roderick Stuart leads the Communications Team for both Durham and Newcastle dioceses. He provides advice on how to ensure that the key leadership messages are heard across the Diocese.
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Enabler +
Remi Omole oversees a team of six advisers and advocates who offer training and support to parishes. He attends leadership meetings when required to keep the leadership team informed on progress and issues in these areas. Read more about diversity.
Head of Programme Delivery for Diocesan Transformation +
Amy Burns supports the development of vision and strategy and oversees nationally funded programmes of work. She also supports the Archdeacon of Durham in leading the Mission, Discipleship and Ministry Team.
Email:
Amy.Burns@durham.anglican.org | Tel: 07443 099160.
