Following the retirement of Geoff Marsh as Diocesan Secretary at the end of May, a thorough national search, appointment and testing process has taken place on behalf of the Bishop’s Council.
As a result of this process, it can now be confirmed that Matthew Girt has been appointed as the new Diocesan Secretary for the Diocese.
In a letter announcing the appointment, Bishop James said that Matthew is "the right person for this post."
"I see his appointment as an affirmation of the work he has already done for us and of the opportunities this has given him. I very much look forward to working with Matthew as he takes up his new role and ask you all to hold him in your prayers. "
Matthew first joined the Diocese in December 2014. As Director of Strategy & Implementation he has led and coordinated major capital projects and strategic developments within the Diocese, particularly around Called Together.
He is a member of the Bishops Leadership Team and has been Acting Diocesan Secretary since the end of May; because of this, his appointment has immediate effect.
Matthew has a background in government, town planning and major regeneration projects, and was previous to his role in Rochester part of the Senior Management Team at the Diocese of London leading on the churches response to new housing areas and the building of its first new church in a new place for over 40 years.
Speaking about his appointment Matthew said: "I am looking forward to the opportunities to build the Kingdom together in this role, supporting parishes and ministries across the diocese is a huge gift.
"It is even more amazing to me personally as I look back and sense where God has led me, especially when it is to places I couldn’t have imagined. I am excited to take on this role and to work with colleagues across the diocese in supporting mission and ministry and building the Church in the public square."